Rejected petition Introduce mandatory prison sentences for severe animal cruelty

The Animal Welfare Act allows up to 5 years imprisonment, yet serious cruelty cases still result in suspended sentences. The Government should amend sentencing guidelines so offences involving severe suffering or death of animals require a custodial sentence.

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Recent high-profile animal cruelty cases where multiple animals suffered or died have resulted in suspended sentences. This undermines public confidence in animal welfare law. The Government should ensure that the most serious offences involving severe suffering or death of animals require custodial sentences so penalties properly reflect the seriousness of these crimes and act as a deterrent.

This petition was rejected

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https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/743142

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Date submitted 13 March 2026
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