In 2017 Melissa Anderson was Convicted of 49 counts of animal neglect and cruelty. Both the Humane Association and the Kanawha County Sheriff's Department seized 15 dogs, 17 rabbits, 6 guinea pigs, 9 birds, and 2 pigs. The court punishment was so mild, she was still allowed to own one "service" dog, and after one year she could own animals again. There is no animal limit in Kanawha county, so it looks months to even arrest her, and innocent animals died in the process. How is it possible, a person who mistreated 49 animals can't get off with a slap on the wrist and be allowed to own unlimited animals again? Laws need to change in WV. There needs to be a one strike rule for serious offenders. I understand people make mistakes, but 49 mistakes in one arrest is unforgivable. There surely are other cases like this that just aren't getting as much attention in West Virginia, because laws are so laid back. I am purposing a domestic animal limit to start, and a one strike rule for gross offenders. Please help make a difference.

https://www.wsaz.com/content/news/Woman-charged-with-49-counts-of-animal-cruelty-412917593.html