On Thursday the Mercury reported that Thomspon, the man found guilty of brutally bashing a litter of puppies at Kurri Kurri, had lodged an appeal against his 18 month jail sentence.

Callie Redman had campaigned to see Thompson jailed for his crimes.

“Are you kidding?” she said when the Mercury told her that Thompson had appealed the sentence. “People aren’t going to back down.

“Any type of cruelty to animals needs to be dealt with justly through the courts and not be just a slap on the wrist.”

Ms Redman has already renewed her social media campaign to see stronger penalties for animal cruelty cases and has Thomspon’s appeal date, June 10, in her sights.

Another group that took to social media to voice outrage at the Kurri Kurri puppy killings was led by Kristal Burston.

“Nathan Thompson pleaded guilty and the fact that he has lodged an appeal displays his total lack of remorse and no comprehension of the crimes he committed,” she said.

“Not only is he showing complete disregard of the law, animal rights and the community in which he lives; he shows no empathy nor compassion to the very existence of life itself – whether that be human or animal.”

Both campaign groups have called for Thompson’s sentence to be increased to the maximum of five years in jail.

Thompson is due to appear in Newcastle District Court on June 10.

Melissa Jones - The pups didn’t get an appeal, why the hell should he?

Sharyn Work - He was guilty so he should have no rights to appeal anything.

Simone Hilson - His current sentence, whilst arguably not long enough, is a step in the right direction.

Nic Ola - Shouldn’t be allowed to appeal. Should have the sentence doubled for daring to appeal his disgusting actions.

Joanne Worthington - Did these poor fur babies have a chance to appeal the death sentence they were handed?

Melissa Jane - I think he doesn’t deserve the option to appeal the judge’s decision.