Animal cruelty is a serious offense and should not be taken lightly.  47 of 50 States have felony-level laws to help protect defenseless animals.  Studies have shown that there is a strong correlation between animal cruelty and other crimes, including interpersonal violence.  The maximum sentence would establish a precedent and would show that animal cruelty will not be tolerated.  Strictly enforcing animal cruelty laws could prevent these acts from escalating into other serious crimes.