Animal cruelty includes a wide range of behaviors that are mistreatment of animals—from neglect (depriving an animal of food, water, shelter, or veterinary care) to torturing, maiming, mutilating, and killing animals. Animal cruelty laws vary from state to state, and are usually included in a state’s statutes.
In New York, animal cruelty is addressed under the Agriculture and Markets Law, specifically in Article 26 titled 'Animals.' This law prohibits the mistreatment of animals and outlines various offenses that constitute animal cruelty, such as abandonment, failure to provide proper sustenance, and unjustifiably injuring, maiming, mutilating, or killing an animal. The law also includes provisions for proper shelter, food, and water for animals. Violations of these statutes can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity of the offense. Additionally, New York has established Buster's Law, which makes aggravated cruelty to animals a felony, punishable by imprisonment and a fine. This law is particularly aimed at those who intentionally harm companion animals with extreme indifference to life. New York's animal cruelty laws are enforced by police, peace officers, and duly appointed SPCA officers.