A new Hawai'i law protects horses from animal cruelty.

Gov. Linda Lingle signed the measure into law last week, shielding horses from abuse along with previously protected animals like dogs, cats, domesticated rabbits, guinea pigs, domesticated pigs and caged birds.

It's now a felony to intentionally inflict cruelty on these animals.

Kaua'i Humane Society Executive Director Becky Rhoades says horses should be included because they're companion animals that forge close relationships with humans.

Another bill Lingle signed into law last week makes it a misdemeanor to possess more than 20 dogs and cats without adequate food or in harmful conditions.

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Information from: The Garden Island, www.kauaiworld.com/