PETITION TARGET: Iowa Lawmakers
After allegedly being confined in a kennel and denied nourishment and veterinary care, a dog in Des Moines, Iowa, had their paws bound with tape, a cord wrapped around their neck, and was finally put in an outdoor shed in a suitcase, where they were later found decomposing, according to local news.
On the same property, another dog was discovered trapped inside a kennel filled with feces and urine, a stark sign of prolonged neglect.
Despite the extreme cruelty alleged in this case, the woman accused of harming the dogs faces only misdemeanor charges for animal torture and animal neglect.
Now, a newly introduced bill in Iowa aims to ensure cases like this carry real consequences by making animal torture a felony.
If enacted, HF 2348/SF 2099 would reclassify animal torture as a Class D felony, punishable by up to five years in prison, with repeat offenses elevated to a Class C felony carrying penalties of up to 10 years.
Iowa is reportedly the only state that does not classify animal torture as a felony for a first offense, leaving animals vulnerable and extremely violent abusers facing minimal consequences.
Sign our petition urging Iowa lawmakers to support this legislation and make sure animal torture is treated as the serious crime it is.
