Target: Michael Watson, Administrator, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
Goal: Seek maximum lawful penalties, a long-term animal-ownership ban, and restitution in a case where a kitten was reportedly returned after the holidays with a broken hind leg, open wounds, and signs of abuse.
An animal shelter owner reportedly opened a returned-adoption box to find a young cat bloodied, limping, and visibly injured. A veterinary exam allegedly confirmed a broken hind leg and multiple open wounds that appeared consistent with abuse. When the shelter declined to release the animal back to the customer, the situation escalated and law enforcement was contacted. The customer was subsequently arrested, and the kitten received urgent care and is expected to recover.
The reported chronology is chilling: a kitten adopted as a holiday pet was apparently kept beyond the trial period and then brought back with matted, bloodied fur and visible wounds. X-rays purportedly revealed the limb fracture; staff described the injuries as far beyond the minor scrapes animals can get in routine life. Such alleged cruelty, if proven, reflects deliberate harm and prolonged suffering.
Strong, consistent prosecution is vital to public safety and animal welfare. Research repeatedly links animal abuse to broader violence, and meaningful consequences can deter future offenses. Sign below to demand prosecutors seek the maximum sentence allowed by law, a long-term or lifetime prohibition on animal ownership, mandatory counseling where appropriate, and restitution for veterinary and shelter costs once a conviction is in place. Justice for this kitten, and prevention for future victims, demand a clear legal response.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Michael Watson,
We respectfully urge your office to pursue the strongest lawful penalties in the case in which a kitten was reportedly returned to a shelter after the holidays with a broken hind leg, open wounds, and other apparent signs of abuse. According to the account, veterinary imaging confirmed the fracture, and shelter staff described bloodied, oozing injuries that far exceeded minor scrapes. Police were reportedly called when the customer demanded the cat’s return; an arrest followed, and the kitten is now receiving care.
Alleged facts of this nature—an animal bloodied, limping, and reportedly suffering a fracture—indicate severe, prolonged pain. When supported by evidence, these acts merit robust prosecution. We ask that you seek maximum penalties permissible under the law, request a long-term or lifetime animal-ownership ban, require counseling where appropriate, and pursue restitution for emergency veterinary treatment and shelter expenses.
A strong, consistent legal response will help protect vulnerable animals, reinforce public safety, and send a clear message that cruelty will be met with meaningful consequences.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: 0x010C
