This is a precis of an article which appeared in my online copy of The Olive Press.
The Valencian parliament has approved a new regional animal welfare law which is tougher than recently-passed national legislation.
Penalties of up to 45,000 euros for very serious cases of animal cruelty
Breeding and sale of pets restricted to authorised professionals.
Also includes hunting dogs who inthis instance are classified as pets.
Valencian agriculture minister Isaura Navarro - guarantees the rights of animals.
Classifies animals as 'sentient beings' and not just pets.
Adoption prioritise. Registration and identifiation of animals required - owners have 6 months to register them.
Penalties for no microchip of mistreatment will be between 100 - 3,000 Euros.
Abuse includes keeping animals permanently tied up, not giving animals enough food or water, leaving them unsupervised in cars, training them for dog fights, breeding or selling without a licence.
Spiked or electric choke collars can only be used by professionals.
Certain sports activities involving cruelty to animals are prohibited as well as travelling circus shows with any animals.
Bullfighting is not included.
Comments