You Can Help Protect Horses & Other Hooved Animals
Report Neglect & Abuse
Despite HAHS’ efforts to prevent abuse and neglect of horses and other hooved animals through education and advocacy, abuse and neglect continue to occur at alarming rates.
Through phone calls and emails of concerned and compassionate people, we are made aware of possible humane cases within the state of Illinois. Our group of approved investigators does everything possible, within the law, to make situations better for the animals involved in reports. Sometimes, this means helping owners understand how to feed and care for large animals properly; other times, it means getting approval from the Illinois Department of Agriculture to take the animals to our farm, where we can provide them with the proper care.
If you suspect someone in your area is abusing or neglecting hooved animals, or if you are driving through the countryside and come across something that just does not look right, please call us at 815-337-5563, click the button below to email us the information, or send an email to [email protected]. Please note we cannot investigate Facebook complaints without the contact information of someone with first-hand knowledge of the situation.
Become An Investigator
Approved Humane Investigators investigate complaints of animal neglect called into the HAHS office.
If you think you, or someone you know, have what it takes to become a Humane Investigator, please contact us.
Investigators must live in Illinois, be 21 years old or older, have experience with horses, and provide a letter of recommendation from their veterinarian and non-relative, attesting their experience with horses. Investigators must pass a background check and the Investigator Exam held in the late fall by the Illinois Department of Agriculture.
HAHS holds an annual prep course for the Licensed Animal Investigator Exam every fall.
Please contact HAHS before the end of the summer to be put on a mailing list for more information.
Advocacy
HAHS also acts as an advocate, or voice, of the hooved animal by supporting legislation in our state, other states, and on a federal level protecting the welfare of hooved animals. HAHS was instrumental in the passage of the original Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act in 1973.
Submit A Complaint
Complaints are received by HAHS by phone, fax, mail, or e-mail. Once the complaint is processed and given a number, it will be sent to the closest investigator. Most complaints can be grouped into one of the following categories:
- Caller not knowledgeable: The caller’s concerns are sincere but unfounded. Example: A person may get upset if they see animals in a muddy paddock or covered in snow. But the animals may, in fact, be healthy and have access to food, water, and shelter.
- Neighborhood grudges: Very often, the animals involved are in good health, but neighbors attempt to use HAHS to vex horse owners arising from unrelated issues. These cases are most often resolved quickly.
- Genuine humane cases: Animals appear thin, starving, or ill. We act immediately if the animals appear to be in poor health, have no visible signs of food, water, or shelter, are down, or appear to be abandoned.
Complaint Approach
If the animals appear to be healthy, with evidence of fresh water, food, and adequate shelter, we assure the owners they are doing a good job.
If the well-being of the animal(s) appears borderline, we talk with the owner or caregiver about nutrition, housing, hoof care, and other management topics. We also encourage owners and caregivers to contact veterinarians for advice on deworming, vaccinations, teeth care, and other health topics. A follow-up visit ensures the owners have complied with our recommendations. Depending on the severity of the case, we may or may not write a Notice of Violation of the Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act.
There may be some occasions when critical cases demand immediate action, such as when animals have been completely abandoned, or exigent circumstances exist. HAHS works with the Department of Agriculture, local law enforcement, and local veterinarians to quickly and legally provide for the health and well-being of these animals.
Complaint Resolution
If the owners cannot or will not comply with our recommendations under the Act, or if officials determine the case is critical, an impoundment number is assigned by the Department of Agriculture, and HAHS assumes ownership of the animals.
Usually, the animals will be taken to the HAHS farm for further examination, improved nutrition, and medical treatment. However, if the case is based in the central or southern portions of the state, we may ask a volunteer to foster the animals until they can be safely transported to the HAHS farm. Once physically and mentally rehabilitated, the animals are placed up for adoption and matched to the most appropriate, knowledgeable homes.
Your Concern & Care Just May Be
The Difference In Life Or Death
Adopt
Every animal deserves a safe, loving home. These rescue animals are just waiting to fill your heart and home with love.
Rescue
If you suspect someone in your area is abusing or neglecting hooved animals, please contact us.
Volunteer
Do you want to make a difference? Contact us to learn more about becoming a part of our team.
donate
Help us make sure the rescued horses and other hooved animals are able to receive the care they need by donating funds.