United States

In the a few jurisdictions, notably and, agents of humane societies and associations may be appointed as special officers to enforce statutes outlawing animal cruelty. "Brute Force: Animal Police and the Challenge of Cruelty" by Arnold Arluke is an study of these special.
In 2004, a legislator proposed a ban on "cruelty to bovines," stating:

"A person who, for the purpose of practice, , or sport, intentionally fells, trips, or otherwise causes a cow to fall or lose its balance by means of roping, lassoing, dragging, or otherwise touching the tail of the cow commits a of the first degree." The proposal did not become law.
It is to be noted, however, that in the USA ear cropping, tail, the, rodeo sports and other acts perceived as cruelty in many other countries are often condoned. Penalties for cruelty can be minimal, if pursued. Currently, 44 of the 50 states have enacted felony penalties for certain forms of animal abuse.

However, in most jurisdictions, animal cruelty is most commonly charged as a misdemeanor offense. In one recent California case, a felony conviction for animal cruelty could theoretically net a 25 year to life sentence due to their three-strikes law, which increases sentences based on prior felony convictionIn 2003, West Hollywood, California passed an ordinance banning of house cats. In 2007, Norfolk, Virginia passed legislation only allowing the procedure for medical reasons. However, most jurisdictions allow the procedure.

It is illegal in many parts of Europe. Many state animal cruelty laws exempt animals used in licensed facilities since the use and humane treatment of some of these animals is regulated by the federal. In 1992, a Federal District Court judge ruled that mice, rats and birds bred for laboratory use, who account for about 90% of animals used in laboratories, should be covered by the Animal Welfare Act, however this decision was never implemented into law.