Module 3: The Case of the Embedded Collar
What is Veterinary Forensics and Animal Abuse?
Veterinary forensics is the use of veterinary medicine to answer for a court of law whether a crime involving an animal has been committed. Crimes against animals are defined by local, state, and federal animal abuse laws. Animal abuse is a LEGAL, not medical determination.
The most common types of animal abuse include neglect, intentional physical abuse, and organized abuse.
Abuse compromises an animal’s physical and mental health and well-being by causing states of discomfort, distress, and pain. Suffering is un-alleviated distress and pain and can be evaluated using the Five Freedoms as a benchmark:
The Five Freedoms
- Freedom from Hunger and Thirst: By ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigor
- Freedom from Discomfort: By provision of appropriate shelter and a comfortable resting place
- Freedom from Pain, Injury, Disease: Through prevention, diagnosis, and treatment
- Freedom to Express Normal Behavior: By provision of adequate space, proper facilities and the company of the animal’s own kind
- Freedom from Fear and Distress: By ensuring conditions and treatment that avoid mental suffering
Pain and suffering are evidence of abuse.
