Stricter Laws And Harsher Punishments Are Needed Against Animal Cruelty IMMEDIATELY!

It is time animal cruelty be taken seriously! We, therefore, the undersigned citizens of the world, petition the U.S. Congress to act IMMEDIATELY to change the laws in favor of HARSHER PENALTIES against animal cruelty!! 
Every day animals are being beaten, abused, lit on fire, dragged behind vehicles, starved, decapitated and more. Most often the offender is let off the hook with minimal jail time, probation or less.  Why do they continue to commit these acts of cruelty? Because there is no consequence to prevent them from commiting such acts.  
In addition, to instill harsher punishments to animal abusers is as beneficial to society as it is to the animals. As I am sure you are aware, people who are guilty of animal cruelty often go on to commit heinous crimes against human beings. Domestic violence, child abuse even in such cases as Jeffrey Dahmer, the infamous serial killer. After torturing and impaling the heads of animals he killed, he went on to brutally murder young boys. It is time these people learn at an early stage in their lives of crime that this behavior is unacceptable and will NOT BE TOLERATED!! Please do not continue to let people get away with intentional cowardly acts against animals.
Also, consider the fact that more and more solid information is becoming available to the public regarding the ability for animals to feel physical pain and mental anguish. Obviously , it is our responsibility as the dominant species to protect those in need, especially those with no voice.
We the undersigned, IMPLORE you to make animal cruelty an offence in which a very strict and harsh punishment will be applied. We are insisting that mandatory prison terms be imposed for crimes against animals!