Animal rescue

Animal cruelty: recognising it, reporting it, protecting the victims

Neglect, lack of care, violence, keeping animals in degrading conditions: cruelty takes many forms. We fund the care of animal victims and inform the public so that every situation is reported.

Updated on · Première Moisson, non-profit association · Reading time: 5 min

Key points in 30 seconds

  • In France, serious cruelty to an animal is punishable by 3 years in prison and a €45,000 fine (Article 521-1 of the Criminal Code).
  • Abandonment carries the same penalties.
  • In an emergency in France, call 17 (police or gendarmerie).
  • Our work: taking in victims, care, shelter, awareness.

Recognising a situation of cruelty

  • An animal that is very thin, dehydrated, without constant access to water.
  • Untreated wounds, limping, visible infections, heavy parasite infestation.
  • An animal permanently tied up, shut away without light or in its own excrement.
  • No shelter from cold, heat or rain.
  • Beatings, repeated shouting, extreme fear behaviour.

How to report animal cruelty in France

  1. In an emergency (ongoing violence, animal in danger of death): call 17.
  2. Gather evidence if you can do so safely: photos, videos, dates, address.
  3. File a complaint or make a report at the police station or gendarmerie.
  4. Alert the DDPP (departmental directorate for the protection of populations), which is responsible for inspecting the conditions in which animals are kept.
  5. Contact an animal protection association, which can support you and join the proceedings as a civil party.

What the law says

MeasureContent
Serious cruelty and acts of cruelty3 years' imprisonment and a €45,000 fine; 5 years and €75,000 if the animal dies
AbandonmentSame penalties as serious cruelty; 4 years and €60,000 if the abandonment exposes the animal to an immediate risk of death
Acquiring a dog or catCertificate of commitment and knowledge + 7-day cooling-off period
Pet shopsSale of dogs and cats banned since 1 January 2024
Wild animalsGradual end of wild animals in travelling circuses and of cetacean shows

These measures come from the French law of 30 November 2021 to combat animal cruelty.

Our work

  1. Taking in animals removed from their owners, together with partner shelters.
  2. Veterinary care and behavioural support for traumatised animals.
  3. Shelter during legal proceedings, then adoption into a suitable home.
  4. Awareness: informing the public about the signs of cruelty and how to report it.

Frequently asked questions

Which number should I call to report animal cruelty in France?
In an emergency, dial 17 (police or gendarmerie). For a non-urgent situation, you can file a complaint, alert the DDPP of your département or contact an animal protection association.
What is the penalty for animal cruelty in France?
Serious cruelty and acts of cruelty are punishable by up to 3 years' imprisonment and a €45,000 fine (Article 521-1 of the Criminal Code), with heavier penalties in certain cases, in particular if the animal dies.
Can I report anonymously?
You can alert an association or the DDPP without being publicly exposed. Filing a complaint, however, requires you to identify yourself to the police.

Official sources

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