2009 Animal Abuser States

In 2009, Hawaii, Idaho, Kentucky, Mississippi, and North Dakota had the most egregious records for animal abuse and neglect, according to a new report from the Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF). The report examined more than 3,800 pages of statutes from every state—including Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and other US territories—and tracked 14 separate categories of neglect to compile the list. The organization also considered the varying state laws covering animal rights and welfare, and concluded that conditions are the worst for animals living in Kentucky. No specific region of the country was exceptionally more ethical than another.