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UK Government Introduces Tougher Punishments for Animal Cruelty

Written by: Samantha H
| Published on July 11, 2019

The United Kingdom’s Parliament approved a new bill to protect some of their most vulnerable inhabitants from harm. The new law is aimed at keeping animals safe. The Parliament also increased potential prison sentences. Three cheers to the UK!

Law of the Land

The new Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill has a harsh sentence for people who harm animals. Convicted criminals could face up to five years in jail, instead of the current penalty of six months.

The Bill reserves the longest jail sentences for those involved in dogfighting, hurting puppies or kittens and failing to care for farm animals.

According to the BBC, Environment secretary Michael Gove said, “There is no place in this country for animal cruelty. That is why I want to make sure that those who abuse animals are met with the full force of the law.”

The secretary added the new law would provide some of the toughest punishments in all of Europe for animal cruelty. We hope other European countries follow the UK’s lead in protecting animals.

Stabbed Police Dog Reveals Unbelievable Skill on Britain’s Got Talent

This new bill works in tandem with Finn’s Law. This legislation gives more protection to service dogs and horses.

Finn stabbed police dog 2
​@Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire Facebook

Protecting Service Animals

The origin of Finn’s Law goes back in 2016.

Finn and his police handler Dave Wardell were tracking an armed suspect. The suspect attempted to attack Dave with a 10-inch blade.

Finn acted immediately. He jumped in front of his friend and partner to keep him from being harmed. Finn faced the assailant’s force. The man stabbed the brave German Sheppard in the head and chest.

The attacker punctured one of Finn’s lungs. Thankfully, he missed Finn’s heart. Despite the severe injuries, Finn recovered after extensive surgery and treatment.

In the aftermath of the attack, Dave wanted to gain awareness for a law that specifically protected service animals.

Dave brought his heroic canine on Britain’s Got Talent (BGT). Dave and Finn shared two “mind-reading” tricks with the judges. Then Dave told Finn’s story of heroism. Finn’s tale brought the toughest judge on the panel, Simon Cowell, to tears.

In February 2019, the law passed in the form of an amendment to the Animal Welfare Act of 2006.

Get to know the brave dog behind Finn’s Law in the video below. Watch his spectacular appearance on the BGT.

H/T BBC
Featured image from Amruth Pillai on Unsplash 

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