Welcome to Justice for Abused Animals

We exist because animals can’t speak for themselves. Through trauma-informed programs, we confront cruelty head-on, help courts deliver justice, and give advocates the tools to be a voice for the voiceless.

Services

"Compassion in Action A Justice" Program for Abused Animal

Advocacy for Animal Abuse Cases

Neurological of effects on Trauma abused Canines Program

Neurological effect of Trauma abused Canines

Criminal Behavior Profiling for Animal Abuse Offenders 

 

Profiling of Offenders for Animal Abuse

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a trauma-informed program (for Animals)?

What is a trauma-informed program (for animals)?

A trauma-informed program for animals centers an understanding of how traumatic experiences change behavior, physiology, and learning—and then designs every interaction around that reality. Instead of “why is this dog acting out?”, we ask “what happened to this dog, and how do we reduce stress while rebuilding safety and trust?”
Core principles applied to animals and handlers:

  • Safety first: low-stress handling, predictable routines, quiet zones, and choice-based interactions.

  • Trust & transparency: consistent cues, clear handler body language, and gradual exposure, never forced.

  • Choice & control: opt-in approaches (e.g., consent cues), retreat options, and autonomy in feeding, play, and rest.

  • Collaboration: align behavior staff, veterinary teams, fosters, and shelters on a shared plan.

  • Empowerment: shape micro-wins (calm sits, soft eye contact, relaxed leash time) to rewire fear into competence.

  • Do no harm: avoid techniques that spike arousal, pain, or re-traumatization.

Your human-behavior work exists to illustrate parallels, not to treat people. It shows why canine responses can mirror human trauma patterns—useful science, still 100% animal-focused in practice.

Who Is Richard Klapko

Official Announcement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Compassion in Action: A Justice Program for Abused Animals
Now Operating Nationwide

Longmont, Colorado — We are proud to announce the official launch of “Compassion in Action,” A Justice Program for Abused Animals, a trauma-informed, court-supported program developed to assist attorneys, prosecutors, and rehabilitation courts in the pursuit of justice for abused and neglected animals.

Founded by Richard A. Klapko, M.A., the program integrates behavioral psychology, neuroscience, and forensic science to identify, evaluate, and support the legal prosecution of animal cruelty cases. Compassion in Action provides expert consultation, offender education models, and trauma evaluation tools designed to strengthen the connection between criminal accountability and animal welfare.

Contact Information
📧 info@justiceforabusedanimals.org
🌐 www.justiceforabusedanimals.org

About the Founder
Richard A. Klapko, M.A.

  • Employed with Boulder County Corrections
  • Master-Level Psychologist
  • Master’s Candidate in Veterinary Forensics, University of Florida
  • Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS) – Humans & Canines
  • Certified in Trauma Effects – Humans & Canines
  • Certified in Neurology – Humans & Canines
  • Specialist in Criminal Behavior & Animal Abusers
  • Background in Behavioral Profiling and Court Testimony

“The program at Justice for Abused Animals has truly changed my perspective and helped me understand the trauma that animals go through. I highly recommend their services.”

John Doe

Contact us

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About us

Justice for Abused Animals is a leading organization in Denver, Colorado, dedicated to bringing justice and reform for abused animals. Our team of psychologists and animal welfare experts work tirelessly to provide support and advocacy for the voiceless victims of animal abuse.