Here in Mass., once a complaint/concern has been received, the family is immediately visited by the animal control officer. Regarding cases such as "nuisance barking," or other minor offenses such as repeatedly disobeying the leash law, the family/owner is given a warning. After a second complaint, a fine is levied and after the third offense, the owner is requried to appear before the Board of Selectmen. (Town Council) Our animal control officer works very closely with the family to try and determine the cause of the problem and works with them to rectify the situation. In cases of abuse or neglect, there is no quesiton that the animal is rfirst emoved. (If proven to be true) Then the family is given couseling/education re: responsible dog ownership. If the neglect/abuse continues, the dog IS removed from the home and the family is encouraged to willingly surrender the animal. Our town council does have the authority, upon the recommendation of the Animal Control Officer, to remove the dog from the home. On rare occasion, the owner will take the case to court. I would still encourage you to contact your local branch of the Humane Society. In all of the their literature, mailings, they encourage the reporting of abuse!!