Existing punishment for animal abuse varies state by state and is almost always inadequate. As a taxpaying citizen, I respectfully request that federal legislation is passed to increase the punishment for animal abuse. Incarceration time should be increased and large fines imposed. Fines should be paid to the local animal shelter where the crime was committed. These funds can be used for animal care and to educate the public. Some may say increased incarceration is something that is not feasible in today’s economic climate, but this is something we cannot afford NOT to do. Studies show 4 out of 5 animal abuser’s behavior escalates to include human victims. As Gandhi so eloquently quoted “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated”.



