Apollo was a police K-9 in Dexter, Missouri. He served his community and depended completely on the human entrusted with his care.

Apollo died after suffering severe malnutrition and dehydration.

His former handler ultimately pleaded guilty to misdemeanor animal-abuse charges and received a sentence that included just 15 days in jail.

Apollo deserved better.

Missouri lawmakers have already considered legislation that would make knowingly starving an animal a felony when substantial harm results. We are asking them to finish that work and strengthen Missouri law in Apollo’s memory.

We call upon the Missouri General Assembly to pass Apollo’s Law, establishing that:

Knowingly depriving an animal in one’s custody or care of adequate food, water, or necessary veterinary treatment, when that deprivation results in substantial physical injury or death, constitutes felony animal abuse.

We also ask lawmakers to establish enhanced protections when someone entrusted with the professional or official care of a law-enforcement or other working animal knowingly causes serious injury or death through severe neglect.

Animals cannot open their kennels.

They cannot obtain their own food.

They cannot call a veterinarian.

They cannot tell authorities they are being abused.

They depend entirely upon us.

Apollo’s death cannot be undone, and this petition cannot change the sentence that has already been imposed.

But we can change what happens next time.

Please join us in asking Missouri lawmakers to pass meaningful felony penalties for severe animal neglect.

Justice for Apollo. Protection for the next one.

Pass Apollo’s Law.