Animal Cruelty

Why should animal cruelty be a crime?

Could any of you give me a rational reason as to why it should be a crime? Leave your feelings and morals at the door, this isn't Oprah's book club.

let it begin.

How can anyone stand up for this kind of EVIL shit!?!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-11155545

Seriously!
Would love to hear an argument for this!