Providing more legal resources to protect animals could help reduce crime against people

Fido and Frisky may enjoy a little more protection in Colorado under a bill recently proposed in the state house.

Not only would the bill bar anyone convicted of criminal cruelty to animals from owning an animal for a set period of years, but it also gives judges leeway to order mental health treatment for defendants.

That’s a win for pets and people alike. How we treat animals is a good indicator of how we treat other humans.

For most of us, abusing any animal — and particularly pets — is either unconscionable or downright unforgivable. Dogs and cats become cherished members of our families. Teddy bear hamsters and guinea pigs teach our children responsibility and kindness.

Read the rest of this column in the Colorado Sun.