There is no doubt that abuse or homicide of a person is a felony. There is no question that it is punishable by costly fines, lengthy jail time, or even death. But what about abuse or homicide of a domestic animal? Many would jump to the obvious conclusion that those actions have the same consequences and are dealt in the same manner as a case involving a human.

What if I told you that the animal cruelty statutes in the state of Pennsylvania declare that the killing of a domestic animal is just a misdemeanor? Basically, abusing or taking the life of a domestic animal is equivalent to driving without insurance or trespassing, on punishable terms.

In 2014, there was a whopping 160,000 cases of animal cruelty reported. Pennsylvania contributed to 8,910 of these cases. That's 5%, caused by only a single state. Additionally, 1 in 8 animal cruelty cases involve domestic violence.

If Pennsylvania legislators would make domestic animal cruelty a felony, it would decrease the amount of cruelty cases by a great deal. It would make an animal abuse think twice and re-evaluate whether they actually want to pay thousands and spend decades in jail due to their actions. Changing these statutes would lead to less domestic violence in general.

Animal cruelty/abuse is never okay, and it is not an answer to any problem. It shall be treated no different than human abuse. A life is a life, and the lives of animals depend on us humans. It is our responsibility to fight for the voiceless, and seek justice for the animals.

Please join me and support this worthy cause by signing this petition. Even if you do not reside in Pennsylvania, signing this is one step closer in getting all 50 states to establish stricter animal cruelty laws. You are doing more than you think; you are saving the lives of animals and contributing to making this world a better place.

#changeforanimalspa

#animalsmatter