The 2024 Session was short. The following bills made it through the legislative process: HB1961, HB1097, & HB1153.

Critical gaps in animal services planning will have a growing impact on Seattle as our population explodes.

A West Seattle case illustrates some of the problems prosecutors face in trying to hold people accountable for animal cruelty. 

Understanding how the courts work, and their rules, is crucial. Rules can influence case strategy, timing, and presentation of evidence.

Plea deals often occur in cases involving animal cruelty and neglect. It is vital that citizens understand this aspect of the legal process.

On December 5th, 2023 the Tacoma City Council passed a new law prohibiting the declawing of cats. 

Veterinary Social Work (VSW) is gaining in recognition and popularity. Washington State University, known for its veterinary program,...

Much of the law covering animals in Seattle is 40 years old - or older. Our city embraces its furry family members - there are more...

When Federal and State Laws Collide We continue with our legal education series. Part 2 discusses a court case in which questions about...

What happens when a crime against an animal is committed? A person that harms or neglects an animal has committed a crime in Washington...

CITY ATTORNEY DATA SHOWS SEATTLE PRIORITIES Majority of City Attorney Animal Cruelty Referrals Are Off-Leash Related Animal Cruelty and...

Red-Eared Sliders (RES), scientific name Trachemys Scripta Elegans, are an aquatic turtle species sold as companion animals in Washington...

The effects of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) on children’s behavior towards animals require a great deal more research. A major...

Last month we brought you cruelty complaints statistics. Cruelty complaints are the result of members of the public contacting the...

Seattle Animal Watch believes that animal cruelty is an invisible issue in our communities. Part of the reason is that there is...

This month’s Data Bites shows that while the pandemic resulted in a sharp decrease in animal cruelty complaints, they are now on the...

Dog fighting is an underground blood sport where dogs who have been bred, conditioned and trained to fight are pitted against each other...

Warning: Violence against a companion animal is discussed Question presented: Does the definition of "domestic violence" include "animal...

If there is an immediate threat to the life of a human or animal, call 911 immediately. Protection or no contact orders cover pets in...

Animal cruelty and intimate partner violence (IPV) often go hand in hand. A perpetrator may use beloved animals to control and frighten...