Humane Law Enforcement
EDUCATING PET OWNERS AND ARRESTING OFFENDERS
The Humane Law Enforcement Department at Lollypop Farm plays a critical role in addressing cruelty to animals in our community. Our organization maintains an SPCA designation and is charged with investigating and enforcing the animal cruelty laws of New York State. With four animal cruelty investigators, the law enforcement department receives no government or agency funding.
OUR OFFICERS’ ROLE IN THE COMMUNITY
Our humane law enforcement officers are certified state peace officers with the authority to make arrests—not “dogcatchers” or animal control officers. The department serves Monroe, Orleans, Genesee, and Livingston counties. Officers also assist authorities in other areas, such as Wayne County. Investigators respond to concerns about animal cruelty reported through our Animal Cruelty Hotline (585-223-6500), as well as cases referred by other law enforcement agencies.
Our officers usually spend several hours each day out in the field, responding to calls. They respond to reports of animal cruelty and provide education responsible pet and farm animal care, within the limits of the law. They are not animal control, which is a function of each municipality, and do not pick up roaming pets or dead animals from the side of the road, or remove wildlife from people’s homes.
DID YOU KNOW?
In 2019, the Law Enforcement department investigated 841 cases of suspected animal cruelty, removed 231 animal from unsafe conditions, and made 13 arrests, holding animal abusers accountable for their crimes.
Most reports involved dogs and cats, but farm animals—especially horses—also made up a large proportion. The arrests were primarily misdemeanors or violations.
Campaigns for Humane Animal Care
Pledge to Fight Animal Cruelty
Far too often, pets suffer in silence. Use your voice for pets in need. Take the pledge to report animal abuse and neglect when you see it by calling Lollypop Farm Humane Law Enforcement or 9-1-1. You can help bring an abuser to justice and make a second chance possible for an abused pet.
Too Hot for Spot
Hot summer temperatures can be dangerous for your pets, especially if left in a parked car. On a warm day, the temperature inside your car can reach 120° F in just a few minutes—even with the windows partially open. Sign the Too Hot for Spot Pledge to keep your pet safe, and learn how you can take action to save other pets locked in hot cars.
Winter Weather Pet Safety
The Rochester weather can be frightful, especially for our four-legged friends. With temperatures dropping and snow falling, the winter season is not without its challenges. From chapped paws to dangerously low temperatures, our pets need our help to keep them safe and comfortable in the upcoming months. Learn about ways to keep pets warm in the winter, and what to do if you see a pet stuck outside in the cold.
Additional Resources
- Animal Cruelty Laws in New York State
- Frequently Asked Questions about Animal Cruelty
- Dog Fighting Frequently Asked Questions
Please note that, although we have provided links to the websites of other animal welfare organizations, Lollypop Farm is an independent nonprofit that does not receive funds from any national organizations.