Willful neglect and intentional harm inflicted upon an animal is a symptom of severe mental illness and violent tendencies. It is often seen in the behavior of serial killers, serial rapists and child molesters. Psychologists recognize it as a red flag for later violence, yet every day people are convicted of brutal, inhumane actions against animals, and are not required to attend counseling or receive psychological testing or evaluation. Often, these crimes, despite their insidious nature, do not even result in jail time or a ban on owning companion or other animals.
https://www.change.org/petitions/the-united-states-congress-and-house-of-representatives-pass-a-law-requiring-all-convicted-animal-abusers-to-register