Texas Animal Cruelty Laws
Know the law. Protect the innocent. Report abuse.
Animal cruelty is a FELONY in Texas
Texas Penal Code - Animal Cruelty Laws
Texas has some of the strongest animal protection laws in the nation. Understanding these laws helps protect animals and hold abusers accountable.
Cruelty to Non-Livestock Animals
Texas Penal Code § 42.092Intentionally or knowingly torturing, killing, seriously injuring, or abandoning an animal, or failing to provide necessary food, water, care, or shelter.
- First offense: State jail felony (180 days to 2 years, up to $10,000 fine)
- Repeat offense or torture: Third degree felony (2-10 years)
- Multiple animals or in presence of child: Second degree felony (2-20 years)
- Causes serious bodily injury to person: First degree felony (5-99 years)
Dog Fighting
Texas Penal Code § 42.10Causing, attending, or participating in dog fighting, or owning/training dogs for fighting.
- Attending a dog fight: Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year, $4,000 fine)
- Participating in dog fighting: State jail felony
- Using a child in dog fighting: First degree felony
- Possessing fighting equipment: Third degree felony
Cockfighting
Texas Penal Code § 42.105Causing, attending, or participating in cockfighting.
- Attending: Class C misdemeanor (fine up to $500)
- Participating or owning fighting birds: State jail felony
- Manufacturing cockfighting equipment: State jail felony
Animal Abandonment
Texas Penal Code § 42.092(b)(3)Abandoning an animal unreasonably without making reasonable provisions for care.
- First offense: Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year, $4,000 fine)
- If animal dies or is seriously injured: State jail felony
- Includes leaving pets during natural disasters without arrangements
Failure to Provide
Texas Penal Code § 42.092(b)(2)Failing to provide necessary food, water, care, or shelter for an animal in custody.
- Includes leaving animals in vehicles in extreme temperatures
- Failure to provide veterinary care when needed
- Inadequate shelter from weather elements
Signs of Animal Abuse or Neglect
Learn to recognize the warning signs so you can help animals in need.
Physical Signs
- •Visible wounds, injuries, or scars
- •Extreme thinness or emaciation
- •Fur loss, open sores, or skin conditions
- •Limping or inability to walk
- •Overgrown nails or matted fur
Environmental Signs
- •No shelter from weather
- •No access to clean water
- •Living in filth or feces
- •Chained without ability to move
- •Overcrowded living conditions
Behavioral Signs
- •Extreme fear of people
- •Aggression when approached
- •Cowering or hiding
- •Excessive barking or crying
- •Lethargy or unresponsiveness
How to Report Animal Cruelty
If you witness or suspect animal abuse, don't stay silent. These resources are available to help.
Big Spring Police Department
For immediate emergencies involving animal cruelty
(432) 264-2550Howard County Sheriff
For reports in Howard County outside city limits
(432) 264-2231What Information to Provide When Reporting
- ✓Location of the animal (address or detailed description)
- ✓Type and description of animal(s) involved
- ✓Description of the abuse or neglect witnessed
- ✓Date and time of the incident
- ✓Photos or videos if safely obtainable
- ✓Description of the person(s) involved if known
Be a Voice for the Voiceless
Animals can't speak for themselves. Your report could save a life. Together, we can end animal cruelty in Big Spring and beyond.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information about Texas animal cruelty laws and is not intended as legal advice. Laws may change, and interpretations may vary by jurisdiction. For specific legal questions, please consult with a licensed attorney. For up-to-date legal codes, visit the Texas Legislature website