Lawmakers in Mexico City have announced that those found guilty of animal cruelty may now face up to four years in prison and thousands of dollars in fines.

Animal cruelty was previously a civil offense, with punishment being being minimal and no real deterrent.

The assembly unanimously agreed that change of current laws was necessary to stop the cruelty as animals are often shot, beaten, burned or even buried alive.

Now, should someone intentionally abuse animals they face up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $500. Should the abuse animal die, the jail sentence can be as long as 4 years and the fine can be as high as $2,000.

The matter of killing animals for food was also discussed and it was determined that should an animal be killed for food, its death must be painless and quick.