Reporting abuse of farmed animals

Unfortunately, Viva! has no legal standing as far as ensuring prosecution for farmed animal welfare infringements. We do go on to factory farms to film the conditions we find there. Through targeted media exposure we are able to embarrass producers, and in turn we use this footage to help educate the public on the conditions endemic in farming today. We aim to help people drop meat and dairy, as we know it is the most effective thing one person can do to end the suffering of animals.

Unfortunately, because we are rarely invited onto farms to film, our footage is usually deemed inadmissible in court (although it is entirely legal), and so cannot be used as part of a prosecution. We do, however, always submit footage to the authorities if we believe that the law has been broken so they can investigate.

However, if you spot farmed animal abuse near you there are things you can do to tackle it. See the side bar for just one success story!

How to report animal abuse:

• Record the location of your concern and write it down
• List your welfare concerns (if it is an ongoing problem record times and dates)
• If it is safe to do so take photos and video footage (this can be used to support a prosecution). Please also send copies to us
• Contact Viva! for advice if you are unsure about anything on 0117 944 1000 or email us. We can report your concerns to the authorities for you if you are worried about doing it yourself

Animal Health

If you think there is a welfare problem at a farm near you, the correct course of action is to call your local Animal Health Office (AHO). Each branch will have a vet on duty. Find your nearest branch.

Trading Standards

Perhaps surprisingly, Trading Standards now have a responsibility when it comes to farmed animal welfare and will investigate allegations of farmed animal abuse. Find your closest Trading Standards.

RSPCA

You can also report concerns about farmed animals to the RSPCA on 0870 55 55 999.

Please note: Sadly, many of the abuses that farmed animals suffer - from routine mutilations to being kept in disgusting conditions - are not illegal. It is indicative of farming practices in Britain today. The authorities will only investigate or prosecute if they think is is possible that the law is being broken or farmers are not following guidelines. This can include animals left without sufficient food or water; animals left to suffer with injuries or without veterinary care; dead animals left on farmland etc.

If you want any more advice or information we’re here to help. Give us a call on 0117 944 1000 or click here to send us an email.

Farming animals for food causes suffering. The best way to end the suffering of animals is to stop eating them. Find out how.