The Virginia Senate is debating bill SB-1604, which would increase the penalty for non-fatal injuries caused by cruelty to a dog or cat from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class 6 felony, resulting, in most cases, in a penalty of 1 to 5 years in prison.

Currently, in Virginia, any person who "cruelly and unnecessarily beats, maims, or mutilates a dog or cat" can only be sentenced a maximum of less than 12 months in jail. Life-threatening but non-fatal injuries to pets can cost thousands of dollars and a lifetime for the animal to recover. Such injuries can make it difficult for an animal to be adopted into a new home, which may result in euthanasia. 

Extensive scientific research demonstrates the close relationship between animal cruelty and other types of crimes, including interpersonal violence, property crimes, and drug offenses. Research also reveals that people who commit acts of cruelty towards animals frequently graduate to more violent crimes. Passing SB-160 will result in stronger penalties against animal abusers, and could prevent repeat offenders and more violent crimes.