As one of only
FOUR states (ID, MS, ND and SD) with a misdemeanor cruelty to animals statute, Idaho's law needs to be changed. Most opposition comes from an unfounded fear that we wish to interfere with "working animals", rodeos, hunting and other animal use lifestyles. To the contrary, we wish to protect those rights just as MT, WY, NV, AZ, CO, TX, KS, NE etc. have done but prosecute those who are egregious offenders who torture or repeatedly offend. Idaho's current law only allows for up to 6 months in jail for a first offense and no more than twelve months in jail for additional offenses with small fines assessed. (This is a
separate issue from dogfighting which was made a felony 02/08.) A current 9/09 proposal would make the penalty even less than a misdemeanor, it would be an infraction - the same as a parking ticket!! Please join us in creating justice for animals who cannot speak for themselves. If you leave a comment, please be courteous as this petition will be hand delivered to lawmakers. ID citizens contact
http://www.idahostop.org/ to join an organization which plans to change the law.
