Better Animal Welfare Laws in Kentucky Today

Kentucky has a lot to be proud of. A long rich history, great food and of course, good bourbon. But there are some things that the state should take no pride in; their ranking as the worst state in the nation for animal protection laws.

Many states have made efforts to pass regulations that would enshrine animal welfare in their legal system. But year after year Kentucky has found itself at the bottom of the list when it comes to animal protections.

Activists point out that Kentucky still has no felony laws for animal neglect or abandonment, Kentucky veterinarians aren't required to report abuse and there is no legislation that requires mental health evaluations in animal cruelty cases.

If Kentucky officials could make just one of these changes they could not only make a big difference for the state's four-legged citizens but they would show the rest of the country that they take animal abuse and neglect seriously. Because animal abandonment and neglect is such a cruel practice, classifying it as a felony could make a real difference and get these animal abusers off the streets.

With your help, we can send a message and convince Kentucky to create a legal regime that protects animals as much as, or even more than other states. Sign the petition and ask Kentucky to make animal abandonment and neglect a felony in the Bluegrass State.