All animals should be shielded under the constitution

All animals should be shielded under the constitution and entitled to basic legal protections. Animals are often times defenseless against neglect and physical abuse by humans. Animals should be protected from cruelty, neglect and abuse. Animals should have the right to a healthy diet, shelter, and medical care. Any person who is accused of violating any of the aforementioned will stand trial just as they would for similar offenses against another human. Furthermore if convicted their punishment will be equivalent to that of crimes committed against other people.