How to document an animal welfare concern
Clear, factual notes help welfare groups act. Here is how to record what you see without putting yourself at risk.
Stay safe first
- Never go onto private property, climb fences or confront anyone.
- Keep your distance from animals that may be frightened, hurt or aggressive.
- If a situation feels tense or unsafe, leave and write your notes later.
- No photo is worth putting yourself in danger.
Write down what you saw
Make notes as soon as you can, while it is fresh. Include:
- When: the date and time, and how long it went on.
- Where: the street, village or landmarks, and which yard or building.
- The animal: what kind, how many, colour, size and any markings.
- What happened: what you saw and heard, in order.
- Its condition: for example very thin, limping, wounds, no shade, food or water, or tied with no room to move.
- Whether it is ongoing: if you have seen the same thing before, note those dates too.
Photos and videos
- Only take them from somewhere you are allowed to be, such as the public road.
- Show the animal and its surroundings: shelter, water bowls, chains or cages.
- Keep the original files. Don’t crop, edit or add filters, and back them up.
- Hold off posting them on social media. It can alert the person involved, make it harder to help the animal, and put you at risk.
Stick to the facts
- Describe what you saw, not what you think happened or why.
- If you are not sure about something, say so.
- Don’t name or accuse anyone publicly. Leave it to the people handling the report.
- Only report what you have seen or honestly believe to be true.
Report it privately
Use the Guyana Paws private report form. You can attach photos and videos, and you don’t have to give your name. You’ll get a reference number so you can follow up later.
If an animal is badly hurt and needs help right now, see emergency help.
This is general guidance, not legal advice.