What exactly is considered animal abuse?

According to city ordinance, Chapter 6, Section 6-38 Cruelty to Animals, cruelty consist of, but is not limited to:

  • Instigating combat between animals and humans
  • Crop ears or dock tails on an animal, except by a licensed veterinarian
  • Not providing sufficient food, water and shelter
  • Not providing necessary veterinary care
  • Beat, hit strike, punch, bully, harass, intimidate or mentally abuse an animal
  • Placing a collar or chain on an animal that would hamper or hinder the animal's movement
  • Tie, chain, tether or stake a dog and endanger its health, safety or well-being


Show All Answers

1. Do dogs and cats have to be spayed or neutered?
2. Where can I find the city ordinance pertaining to animals?
3. What is a microchip?
4. How many dogs / cats can I have in Killeen?
5. Can I have pigs in the city limits?
6. Is there a rule about rabbits?
7. Can I keep chickens or carrier pigeons in the city? What about turkeys or pheasants?
8. Does my dog have to be on a leash when I take him/her for a walk?
9. What should I do if I find a stray animal?
10. What exactly is considered animal abuse?
11. What can I do if I have seen someone abuse their animal?
12. What is the rule about stray cats?
13. Someone's dog bit me. What should I do?
14. My animal escaped from my back yard. Where can I look for it?
15. How can I be sure my animal is returned to me in case it gets away?
16. My pet has died; how do I dispose of the body?
17. Where do I go to pay a fine for an animal violation?
18. What do I need to do to adopt a pet from the city animal shelter?