SPRINGFIELD, ILL (WICS/WRSP) — Illinois pet owners who neglect their animals could face severe legal consequences, including fines and jail time, according to state laws and animal protection agencies.
John Ridley, director of Sangamon County Public Health, said, “If they're not en route to investigate or pick up an animal, they certainly have their eyes peeled the entire time they're on the road.”
Illinois law mandates that pet owners provide adequate shelter and prohibits leaving animals outside in extreme weather. Kathleen Wood, senior staff attorney at the Animal Legal Defense Fund, explained the legal repercussions.
“If a person leaves their dog or cat outside in extreme weather and the animal suffers hypothermia or death, that person can be charged with a Class A misdemeanor,” Wood said. “The maximum penalty for that is up to a year in jail and up to a $2,500 fine.”
Abandoning pets outside, regardless of temperature, can result in a Class B misdemeanor, with penalties of up to six months in jail and a $1,500 fine, Wood added.
Deana Corbin, executive director of the Animal Protective League, highlighted that some owners may abandon pets due to a lack of resources.
“If they can't afford to feed their pets, or if they can't afford to provide medical care, they don't know if there's anywhere to turn or anyone that will help them,” Corbin said. She emphasized the importance of reaching out for help and utilizing community resources like local pet food banks and shelters.
“Animals are sentient beings, and they feel joy, they feel pain, they feel suffering, just like a human would,” Corbin said. “If we don't hold people accountable for that, then I think we're going to see more and more horrific crimes for animals.”
According to the Animal Legal Defense Fund, Illinois law allows police officers to remove animals from life-threatening situations without a warrant. Animal control can also confiscate animals depending on the situation.
The APL and Sangamon County Animal Control have pet food banks, and local shelters and rescues may be able to help with medical expenses.
Local Facebook groups including “Springfield Families Helping Families” provide resources as well.
