I've read many animal abuse cases, and some of them were so heinous the only acceptable punishment would be death. If someone can abuse a dog or cat, it won't be long before they abuse a human. Abusers have no place in a civilized society. I have two dogs (one of which is mine, the other is a family member's, but I consider him my dog because I spoil him as if he were mine) who I love dearly, and I couldn't imagine abusing or neglecting them. When you get a dog or cat, you're making a commitment to take care of it for life. Dogs and cats depend on their humans for food & water, plus shelter and when I read about abuse and neglect, it makes me wonder why they got a pet if they weren't going to properly care for it. If someone can't care for a pet, take it to a shelter where they will be loved until they find a forever home. A coward is also someone who watches animals being abused and does nothing. In my eyes, they're just as guilty. If I saw someone abusing their pet, I would take action. Dogs can't defend themselves, so it's up to decent human beings to stand up for them.
