Investigating Animal Cruelty

Investigating Cruelty Complaints

Dr. Dana Miller, SHS VP of Anti-Cruelty Initiatives, is uniquely positioned to offer resources previously unavailable to our community for investigating and prosecuting animal cruelty cases.

Prior to joining the SHS, Dr Miller worked on a wide variety of cases including puppy mills, animal hoarding, animal fighting, severe neglect, and brutal cases of animal cruelty.

In addition to providing technical guidance during investigations, she has worked closely with attorneys, serving as an expert witness during the prosecution of criminal cases. Dr. Miller also specializes in the use of related scientific disciplines to help solve crimes involving animals, also known as veterinary forensics.

Dr. Miller leads investigations for the SHS and is actively responding to requests for assistance from local animal control officers

The SHS approach

Successful intervention in animal cruelty cases should alleviate immediate suffering and address circumstances that can lead to future suffering.

Education is one of the most powerful tools used in addressing neglect and unintentional cruelty. Many situations can be resolved by exposing pet owners to responsible pet care and connecting them to affordable resources, such as low cost veterinary services. Pet owners will be held accountable for meeting their pets' needs through consistent and non-threatening follow-up.

Education is not an appropriate response to cases of intentional cruelty or organized cruelty. Public safety demands a more immediate response. Furthermore, when owners do not respond to education, they must be compelled by law to provide adequate care. In these cases, it is necessary to build a strong case and to collaborate with local law enforcement and solicitors to prosecute perpetrators.

If you suspect cruelty in Spartanburg County

Local animal control officers remain our county's first defense against suspected cases of cruelty. County and city officers are out on the street every day, protecting public heath and safety and enforcing animal related laws. Because the SHS cannot match this level of manpower, we will focus on cases that will most benefit from Dr. Miller's expertise.

Even if you are unsure whether or not a situation should be reported to animal control or to the SHS, submit a complaint form or call us at 864.583.4805, ext. 121. Dr. Miller will evaluate each report. If we do not investigate, your report will be shared with the appropriate animal control department.