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To increase the likelihood of success during prosecution of animal cruelty cases, veterinarians must conduct forensic medical investigations and, when necessary, participate in crime scene investigations to provide this vital evidence. In January 2009, the University of Florida announced that it would partner with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to develop the first academic program in forensic veterinary medicine. In addition to this program, many veterinary medical schools and colleges include animal abuse lectures in shelter medicine elective courses. Although shelter veterinarians are one group likely to encounter these cases, veterinarians outside the shelter community should be cognizant of these issues and capable of and confident in managing animal abuse cases they encounter in practice. Tremendous strides have been made in animal protection, but the veterinary profession has been remiss in its responsibility to advocate for the animals it pledges to protect. Providing basic forensic training to veterinary students will help to produce veterinarians who are capable and confident in their abilities to recognize, report, and investigate cases of animal cruelty. References 1. Sims V, Chin M, Yordon R. Don’t be cruel: assessing beliefs about punishments for crimes against animals. Anthrozoos 2007;20:251–259. 2. Arkow P. Breaking the cycle of violence: a practical guide. Alameda, Calif: The Latham Foundation, 1995;11–36. 3. Donley L, Patronek G, Luke C. Animal abuse in Massachusetts: a summary of case reports at the MSPCA and attitudes of Massachusetts veterinarians. J Appl Anim Welf Sci 1999;2:59–73. 4. Tate Britain. 2007 Hogarth’s modern moral series: the four stages of cruelty. Available at: www.tate.org.uk/britain/exhibitions/ hogarth/modernmorals/fourstagesofcruelty.shtm. Accessed May 28, 2010.
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