The maximum penalty for animal abuse (including torture, murder) is 6 months. I'm sure if anyone who has read an article on animal abuse in the past has been disgusted to the lengths at which people will disregard the rights of animals who cannot say no. They cannot ring an abuse hotline, they cannot just up and walk out. All animals know, in relation to humans is guidance and love. The trust an animal will have towards its "owner" is unconditional. Please don't let people who have the mallice to cause prolonged pain and discomfort to an animal get away with murder literally. As you know animals can't speak up for themselves, but you can.