Breaking the Cycle of Cruelty

A new law in Italy aims to protect animals from violence, with hefty fines and even prison time for those who mistreat or harm them. The bill, signed into law with a show of hands vote, introduces stricter rules in the relationships between animals and humans, recognizing animals as subjects under the law.

Key Provisions of the Law

  • Increased penalties for animal cruelty: Organizers of events or competitions in which animals are subjected to violence will face fines of up to €30,000, while those who participate will face prison sentences of 2-4 years and fines of up to €30,000.
  • Severe penalties for animal killing: Those who kill an animal will face prison sentences of 6 months-4 years and fines of up to €60,000.
  • Mistreatment of animals: Those who mistreat animals will face prison sentences of up to 2 years and no longer alternative financial penalties.
  • Ban on animal fights: There is a total ban on animal fights, with organizers facing fines of up to €30,000 and participants facing prison sentences of 2-4 years.
  • Ban on using domestic cat fur for commercial purposes.
  • Prohibition on tying dogs to chains: Dogs can no longer be tied to chains throughout the national territory.
  • Protection of protected species: Killing, capturing, or detaining protected species will result in arrest and fines of up to €8,000.
  • Puppy trafficking: Puppy trafficking will be punished with imprisonment of 4-18 months and fines of €6,000-€30,000.

Animal Rights and the Law

“Animals become subjects under the law, recognizing their rights independently of our way of perceiving them,”

said Michela Vittoria Brambilla, the centre-right MP who first introduced the bill. “This is a fundamental novelty, placing animals at the center of legal protection.”

Impact on Society

The new law aims to break the cycle of cruelty and promote a culture of compassion and respect towards animals. By recognizing animals as subjects under the law, the law seeks to promote a more humane and equitable society.

Conclusion

The new law in Italy is a significant step towards protecting animals from violence and promoting a culture of compassion and respect. With its increased penalties and comprehensive protection of animal welfare, the law is expected to have a positive impact on society and promote a more humane and equitable world.