Recognizing the warning signs of animal mistreatment is critical to saving lives. If you observe any of the following physical, environmental, or behavioral indicators, an animal may be suffering from neglect or abuse:

• Visible ribs, spine, or bones indicating severe emaciation
• Matted, filthy, or severely missing fur
• Untreated open wounds, sores, or visible infections
• Limping, inability to stand, or extreme difficulty moving
• Signs of extreme thirst or severe hunger
• No access to fresh, clean drinking water or adequate food
• Living in filthy, unsanitary, or hazardous conditions
• Being kept outdoors in extreme cold or heat without suitable shelter
• Cowering, extreme trembling, or overtly fearful behavior toward people
• Excessive barking, whining, or crying in prolonged distress

If an animal is in immediate danger, please contact local law enforcement first. They are the fastest responders in urgent situations.

Pennington County Sheriff’s Office
218‑681‑6161

Thief River Falls Police Department
218‑681‑6161

Minnesota Federated Humane Societies (MN FED)
MN FED provides statewide humane law enforcement services and investigates reports of animal cruelty and neglect cases across Minnesota communities.

Reporting Line: 612-866-8663

What to Report
Contact MN FED if you witness or suspect animal abuse, neglect, abandonment, unsafe living conditions, or animals being denied adequate food, water, shelter, or necessary veterinary care. When making a report, provide the location, a description of the animal or animals involved, and any details that may help investigators assess the situation.

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When you make a report, any details you can provide are helpful to officers and investigators:

• Location of the animal (exact address or landmarks)
• Description of the animal(s) (breed, color, size, recognizable markings)
• What you witnessed or observed
• Date and time of the incident or observations
• Photos or video (only if it is completely safe to obtain)
• Whether the situation is ongoing or an immediate emergency

You may remain anonymous if you choose when submitting your report.

Cruelty and neglect rarely exist in isolation. Speaking up protects the entire community and ensures vulnerable animals receive timely intervention.

Your call can:

• Stop ongoing suffering
• Help authorities intervene before a situation worsens
• Protect other animals in the home
• Support legal action when needed
• Strengthen safety for both animals and people

The Animal Humane Society (AHS) employs the only three full-time humane agents in Minnesota, investigating cruelty, neglect, and welfare violations across multiple counties. Their specialized work supports local law enforcement and provides vital guidance to community members when animals are in distress.

AHS humane agents respond to concerns involving both pets and livestock, including:

• Animals lacking necessary food, clean water, or adequate shelter
• Hoarding situations
• Physical abuse or chronic neglect
• Denial of needed veterinary medical care
• Animal fighting
• Abandonment, poisoning, or illegal shooting
• Animals left unattended in vehicles under hazardous conditions
• Commercial facilities (kennels, stables, pet stores, boarding operations) failing to meet minimum care standards

If you are unsure whether a situation qualifies as neglect or cruelty, it is always best to reach out for guidance. AHS can help assess the circumstances and determine the proper course of action.

AHS humane investigations contact
Phone: 612-772-9999 (Concerns can also be reported online through the AHS reporting system.)

For active emergencies where an animal's life is in immediate danger, please dial 911 or contact local law enforcement first.