When Should You Report Animal Neglect or Abuse?

If you believe an animal is being neglected, abused, or kept in conditions that may compromise its welfare, you can report your concerns to the City of Leuven's animal welfare services. Reports can involve pets, livestock, pasture animals, or other animals whose health and well-being may be at risk.

Urgent Situations

For situations that require immediate intervention, residents should contact the police directly at on 016 21 06 10 or 101. Urgent cases may include animals in immediate danger, serious mistreatment, or situations where swift action is necessary to prevent suffering.

Non-Urgent Situations

For non-urgent situations, reports can be submitted through

• The city's reporting platform.

What Happens After You Make a Report?

Many residents wonder whether reporting a concern actually leads to action. In Leuven, reports are investigated by the local police district officer in cooperation with an animal inspector.

The investigation process may include:

1. Assessing the animal's living conditions and welfare.
2. Informing the owner of their legal responsibilities and animal welfare obligations
3. Agreeing on concrete measures to improve the animal's situation within a specified timeframe.
4. Monitoring whether the owner complies with those agreements.

If the owner fails to take the required actions, the police may issue an official report. In serious cases of neglect or abuse, animals can be confiscated in cooperation with the Flemish animal welfare inspectorate.

Authorities also monitor compliance with animal ownership bans imposed on individuals who have previously been convicted of animal welfare offences.

Do Farm and Pasture Animals Need Shelter?

This is a common question among residents who encounter animals in fields throughout the Leuven region.

According to current regulations, pasture animals must have access to protection from adverse weather conditions. This can include natural shelter such as large trees. By 1 January 2029, adapted shelters such as suitable stables or pens will become mandatory for these animals.

If animals appear healthy and have access to shelter, their situation may be compliant with animal welfare requirements. However, if animals appear underweight, unwell, or have no access to protection from the elements, it may be appropriate to submit a report for further investigation.

Can Animals Stay Outside in Rain or Snow?

Many farm and pasture animals are naturally adapted to changing weather conditions. They often develop thicker coats or additional body fat during colder months, allowing them to spend time outdoors safely.

What matters most is that animals have the opportunity to seek shelter when needed. If adequate protection is unavailable or the animals show visible signs of poor health, reporting the situation can help authorities determine whether intervention is required.

Can You Follow Up on a Report?

After reporting a case, residents sometimes want to know the outcome of the investigation. However, active police investigations are confidential. The city's animal welfare department does not provide updates on ongoing cases, and information about enforcement actions is generally not shared publicly.

While this can feel frustrating, confidentiality helps protect the integrity of investigations and the privacy of those involved.

What About a Constantly Barking Dog?

A dog that barks excessively may raise concerns for both neighbours and animal welfare services. In some cases, persistent barking can be linked to welfare issues such as loneliness, anxiety, or insufficient care. In other situations, the cause may be unrelated to neglect.

When a report is submitted, authorities assess whether the dog's welfare is being compromised. If no welfare concerns are identified, neighbourly dialogue and mediation may be the most effective way to resolve the issue. Leuven offers mediation services that help residents reach constructive agreements and maintain positive relationships within their neighbourhoods.

Protecting Animal Welfare Together

Leuven's animal welfare policy focuses on prevention, education, and enforcement when necessary. Whether you're concerned about a neglected pet, farm animals without adequate shelter, or signs of possible mistreatment, reporting concerns helps ensure animals receive appropriate care and protection.

For internationals living in Leuven, understanding the local reporting system can make it easier to take action when you witness a potential animal welfare issue. Even if you're unsure whether a situation qualifies as neglect, reporting your concerns allows trained professionals to assess the circumstances and determine the appropriate next steps.