Implementing an animal abuse and cruelty registry in Arkansas has been suggested over the years but has unfortunately met with opposition. However, the abuse statewide continues and has become a tremendous problem, from numbers of dogs found dead from gunshot wounds to suspected puppy mill issues and even dogs living in squalor at a shelter that is supposed to be a safe haven for homeless pets. You can read about some such cases regarding animal abuse at http://virtualfluffies.com/2014/08/14/the-cruelty-case-dogs-of-magnolia-arkansas/ and http://www.humanesociety.org/news/press_releases/2015/12/ar-reward-large-scale-dog-cruelty-122315.html
There are many benefits of an animal abuser registry which would be a useful database containing names, locations and history of any criminals convicted of abuse and cruelty. The registry would ensure the health and well-being of both animals and humans alike, since facts have shown that there is a definite link between the two. People who abuse animals often times commit violent crimes against humans in their communities. A registry would protect all victims, whether animals or people.
An animal abuse registry would be a significant protection for shelters and other animal-related agencies of companion pets, not only for the staff but potential adopters and guardians. This registry would prevent repeat abuse and ensure anyone on the database would have a lifetime ban from owning or even caring for and working with animals. Animals just like children and the elderly are defenseless against those with no regard for life and humanity. An animal abuse and cruelty registry would be a database of convicted cruelty criminals, similar in stature to that of a sex offender’s registry or anyone who abuses children and the elderly.
Our efforts in this petition is to encourage Arkansas state legislators to implement a strict and thorough database for any and all animal abusers. This would be a proven method of protecting animals and possibly preventing future animal abuse. Something needs to be done to help these defenseless beings and be their voice. You can help us in our efforts to protect animals statewide (and hopefully eventually nationwide) by signing and sharing this petition. Speak out for those without a voice and encourage an animal abuse and cruelty registry.
Arkansas State Legislators – Implementing an animal abuse and cruelty registry would be an important database throughout the state of Arkansas and eventually nationwide as a tool in saving animals from abusers. The animal abuse registry would be similar in stature and effectiveness as that of a sex offender. Something needs to be done to protect animals; anyone who would perform such a crime against an animal has no respect or regard for life or humanity. Studies have shown that there is a strong connection between abuse against an animal and that of humans. Such a registry would protect the health and well-being of both animals and people, preventing repeat abuse and a future lifetime ban on owning, caring or even working with animals in the future.
