The issue of animal cruelty and overcrowded shelters is growing in the United States. Unlike many crimes against people, most animal abuse cases are never reported. But just like intentional violence against people, there is such a thing as intentional violence against animals. Animal violence goes hand-in-hand with overcrowded shelters. Stray animals, pets given up by their owners and abused animals, are just among many reasons why shelters are over populated.

Animal abuse is something I have always been strongly against. It is nothing short of equal to hurting a human being. Animals are helpless and defenseless creatures that are put on this earth for one sole reason: to love and be loved.

According to The Human Society of the United States, 70.1 percent abuse victims are dogs, 20.9 percent are cats, and 24.1 percent are other animals. Abuse is also categorized in organized abuse, such as dog fighting and cockfighting. Many cases are not reported, and those who complete the act are not prosecuted, which needs to change.

All 50 states have a felony provision for animal cruelty. This includes animal neglect and is classified a Class A felony. This is exciting news for all the animals and animal lovers across America. But sadly, the problems don't stop there. Even though there are harsh sentences for these criminals, people will continue to commit these vicious acts.

Overcrowded shelters are another huge problem we have in America. Many animals that are neglected or simply abandoned end up at these shelters, and the sad truth is, many shelters euthanize animals after a certain period of time. They deem them "un-adoptable."

Many ignorant and neglectful pet owners will come to these shelters and try to give up their animal. Most are turned away because of the overpopulation in the shelter, and there is a fee to give up their animal. This leads people to take drastic measures to get rid of their pet.

There have been cases where people actually killed their animal just to get it off of their hands. This is a problem that needs to stop, and quickly. An overcrowded animal shelter in Orange County offers free pet adoptions — this is one way for shelters to solve their overcrowding.

We don't deserve animals. Our world is too cruel to have affectionate creatures that just want to be loved. One day, I hope to open my own animal rescue sanctuary, where I can save dogs from homelessness, abuse, neglect and euthanasia.

You can also play a part in saving animals. Always donate to an animal foundation whenever you can, and never adopt or buy from a breeder or a pet shop. You'll save a life, save other animals and give a loving creature a new, permanent home.

Visit ASPCA, The Humane Society of the United States, or any other animal advocates to donate today.