LONG-TERM OUTCOMES IN ANIMAL HOARDING CASES (pdf. file)

Colin Berry, M.S., Gary Patronek, V.M.D., Ph.D., and Randall Lockwood, Ph.D.

Animal hoarding is a form of abuse that affects thousands of animals each year, yet little is known about how cases are best resolved, the effectiveness of prosecution, and how sentences relate to the severity of the offense. This lack of information has hampered effective resolution and the prevention of recidivism. This study obtained information about the hoarders, animals, charges, prosecution, sentencing, and recidivism for fifty-six cases identified through media reports.  (11 Animal Law 167 (2005)).

Illinois' Definition of "Companion Animal Hoarder" - 510 ILCS 70/2.10

New Mexico's 2002 House Bill 444 that proposed the new crime of animal hoarding with penalties that include psychological counseling.

Vermont's 2002 s.205 that provided both a definition of "animal hoarder" and a component for mandatory psychological counseling upon conviction of being an animal hoarder.