[rintense]

Well the felony charge is clearly a moot point. But considering the actions the owner took, beating a dog he claims was afraid of traffic and wouldn't come to his call, jail time is well deserved. His arguments show very little logic as did his actions. Cruelty to either man or beast is unacceptable in my book.

And yes, I confess that animals are my most liberal 'cause'. I know I'm not alone on FR either. ;)

[HairOfTheDog]

His arguments show very little logic as did his actions. Cruelty to either man or beast is unacceptable in my book. And yes, I confess that animals are my most liberal 'cause'. I know I'm not alone on FR either. ;)

Mine too, but I find myself unwilling to convict this guy as yet, without proof of injury. He may have lost his temper with the dog, but his punishment motive was understandable. I want cruelty charges, not for bad discipline in an otherwise well-cared-for dog, but for the malicious torture and mutilation or outright starvation and neglect of dogs. As an animal lover, I want good law to protect the poor beasts from vicious people. But good law draws much clearer lines than what might be debatable as punishment for poor behavior. There is a line where we all know abuse when we see it.