Which of the following is an example of animal abandonment?

Animal abandonment refers to the act of leaving an animal without proper care or supervision, essentially yielding responsibility for the animal's welfare. The scenario of not returning for an animal after treatment exemplifies this concept clearly. When a pet owner takes an animal to a veterinarian for treatment, they enter into an implicit agreement regarding the care of that animal. If the owner fails to return to claim the pet or fails to provide further care, they are effectively abandoning it. This action can place the animal in jeopardy, as they rely on their human caretakers for safety, health, and well-being.

In contrast, leaving a pet tied up outside for long periods may involve neglect but does not necessarily meet the legal definition of abandonment, as the owner is still physically present. Similarly, giving a pet to another owner or rehoming an animal through a shelter usually involves a transfer of responsibility and care, which does not constitute abandonment if done correctly. These actions seek to ensure the animal continues to receive care rather than being left without support.