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 Oklahoma, animal cruelty is addressed under the Oklahoma Statutes, Title 21, Sections 1680 through 1716. These laws prohibit various forms of mistreatment of animals, including neglect, abuse, and abandonment. Neglect is defined as failing to provide necessary food, water, shelter, or veterinary care to an animal. More severe acts, such as torture, maiming, mutilating, or killing an animal, are also illegal and can result in more serious charges. Penalties for animal cruelty in Oklahoma can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense. Repeat offenders or those committing particularly heinous acts may face felony charges, which carry stiffer penalties, including the possibility of significant jail time. It's important to note that these laws apply to domesticated animals, livestock, and wild animals in captivity.