Viewpoint - Make Animal Cruelty a Felony - WDAM.COM - TV 7 - News, Weather and Sports

Viewpoint - Make Animal Cruelty a Felony

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Mississippi lawmakers are working to pass a bill that would make animal cruelty a felony in this state.  We are the only state in the South and one of only a very few in the nation that hasn't already taken this step.  We've seen and heard of horrible instances of animal abuse.  Innocent pets are taken and used as bait for fighting dogs to give them a taste for blood.  Animals are neglected and starved by people who think getting a cuddly little puppy or kitten is great until it's time to take care of them.  Then they've got better things to do with their time and money.  Animals designed to be household pets are abandoned to fend for themselves…something most are ill-equipped to do.  Those who have the instincts become wild predators that are a danger to domestic animals and humans.

Studies have shown that people who torture and abuse animals are likely to do the same to  human beings less powerful than themselves.  As much as we care for our animals in this state…I am amazed that we don't have stricter penalties for anyone who would cruelty abuse them.  Again…every other of our sister states in the South do.  It is time Mississippi caught up.

We strongly urge that you contact your state representative or senator and ask that they vote to make animal cruelty a felony offense in our state.  I'm Jim Cameron and that's today's Viewpoint.  Let us know what you think.