Recent pet pig killings on private property on O'ahu and Kaua'i have appalled and alarmed our community. It is time for those who love animals to join the Hawaiian Humane Society and the Kaua'i Humane Society in actively advocating for stronger protection laws.

The killing of a pet pig on Kaua'i in August and the brutal death of a loved pet pig named Porky in Mililani last month led not to charges of animal cruelty against the alleged perpetrators, but to charges of theft of livestock. Why? Because animal cruelty is only a misdemeanor, while stealing livestock is a felony.

Prosecutors must have more tools to effectively take on inhumane acts, such as the knife attack that led to Porky's death. Tougher laws in Hawai'i that will make animal cruelty a felony are long overdue.

And let's not neglect the bigger picture. An animal felony law is important not just for animals, but for society's protection.

Decades of research have shown an undeniable link — those who intentionally harm animals are far more likely to use violence against people. Stronger animal protection laws make for a safer society.

The Hawaiian Humane Society and Kaua'i Humane Society address animal cruelty through law enforcement, legislation and humane education. We have advocated for stricter cruelty sentencing over the past decade. Courts treat misdemeanors like overblown traffic tickets, and perpetrators often get off with just a slap on the wrist. Such lack of accountability is of growing concern, and these recent cruel acts are a clarion call to do something now.

This year, we plan once again to work with the Legislature to try to push for felony-level penalties for people who knowingly and intentionally harm animals.

To ensure a better chance of making a difference, the public must also take part in this effort. What can you do?