Protect our Pets Act

This legislation significantly strengthens federal protections against animal cruelty by increasing penalties for existing offenses and establishing new prohibitions. It amends title 18, United States Code, to raise the maximum imprisonment for a first offense of animal crushing from 7 to 10 years, and for subsequent offenses from 10 to 15 years.

Additionally, the bill creates a new federal offense prohibiting the knowing abandonment or endangerment of domesticated animals on federal land or in interstate commerce. This new offense carries penalties of up to 10 years imprisonment for a first offense and up to 15 years for repeat offenses. The legislation includes specific exceptions for customary veterinary, agricultural, hunting, research, and pest control practices, as well as actions necessary for self-protection or euthanasia.