On the 3rd of September 2024, at 10 am, a life was tragically taken away. A bull terrier pup named Leo, only 1 year and 6 months old, was brutally murdered by a pastor and his wife who subjected him to 57 horrifying stabbings. This heartbreaking event not only stole Leo's life but also exposed in the starkest sense, the dire issue of dog abuse that remains rampant.

Each year, tens of thousands of dogs like Leo suffer and are brutally victimized. The Animal Welfare Institute reports that over 64.5% of all reported animal abuse involves dogs, a statistic that sadly demonstrates the extent of this problem. These figures illustrate a grave, systemic problem with how we, as a society, are failing to protect our loyal companions.

This petition seeks to implement stricter penalties for dog abusers and bring them to justice. By setting harsher punishments, we aim to deter any individuals who consider acting in this horrifying manner. It is about time we reinforce that animal lives matter and that animal cruelty is a grievous crime that cannot be overlooked.

We request your signature on this petition to seek justice for Leo and all other dogs that suffer at the hands of heartless abusers. Let us bring about a change that can potentially save thousands of innocent lives every year. Sign this petition and take a stand against dog abuse today.

Alicia Steyn