Justice for Rosie! Too many animals have been injured or even killed under the care of pet sitters in Missouri.

My name is Erick and I had to privilege of having Rosie as part of my family.  A beloved dog whose life was taken far too soon due to severe abuse inflicted by her dog sitter.  Rosie was more than a pet - she was family.  Her death was not an accident, not a misunderstanding, but the result of cruelty that no living being should ever endure. 

Rosie's suffering exposed painful gaps in Missouri's current animal protection laws.  These gaps allow abusers to avoid meaningful consequences and leaves countless animals vulnerable.  No owner should have to experience what Rosie endured, and no animal should be left unprotected under the law. 

Current Missouri laws on animal abuse fail to provide adequate deterrence or justice for these heinous acts. According to Missouri Revised Statutes, animal abuse is often classified as a misdemeanor, resulting in minimal penalties that do not reflect the severity of the crime. This lack of strict penalties sends a message that animal lives are not valued, and abusers can continue their crimes with little fear of serious consequences.

Statistics show that stronger animal protection laws lead to decreased rates of abuse. Missouri can look to states with tougher laws, such as those mandating felony charges and significant jail time for animal cruelty, as a model for reform. For instance, states like California impose up to three-year prison sentences for severe animal cruelty cases, demonstrating the seriousness of these crimes and the need for preventive measures.

We call upon the Missouri legislature to enact meaningful reforms.  These changes are crucial not only to safeguard countless animals but also to uphold justice for their suffering and to deter future abuses.  These should include:

1. Increase penalties for animal abuse and neglect
   • Elevate severe abuse resulting in injury or death to a higher‑level (Class D) felony
   • Require mandatory jail time for intentional harm
   • Ensure repeat offenders face escalating penalties
2. Require mandatory reporting and transparency
   • Require veterinarians, groomers, sitters, and boarding facilities to report suspected abuse
   • Create a statewide public registry for convicted animal abusers
3. Strengthen regulations for pet sitters and caretakers
   • Require background checks for professional pet sitters
   • Establish licensing or certification standards
   • Mandate clear liability and accountability measures

Rosie’s death should not be in vain. Her story must become a catalyst for change so that no other animal suffers the way she did. Missouri has the opportunity—and the responsibility—to lead with compassion, accountability, and justice.

By signing this petition, you stand with Rosie, with her family, and with every animal in Missouri who cannot speak for themselves. Together, we can make sure Rosie’s legacy is one of protection, not pain.  Let's urge our legislators to prioritize animal welfare and impose harsher sentences for those who abuse the privilege of pet care.

We demand action. We demand justice. We demand stronger laws for Missouri’s animals.

In loving memory of Rosie.