The Legislative Assembly of the State of São Paulo (Alesp) made history by unanimously approving the law that prohibits the sale of animals in pet shops and similar establishments.
This measure, aimed at protecting domestic dogs, cats, and birds, is a significant milestone for animal welfare and represents a meaningful advancement in the fight against illegal trade and cruelty.
The context and necessity of the law for animals
The sale of puppies has been growing alarmingly in recent years, driving an illegal market that disregards animal welfare. Often, female dogs are seen merely as breeding machines, exploited for reproductive purposes without any consideration for their health and dignity. This scenario of exploitation and cruelty has raised an alarm in society and demanded effective action from the authorities.
Creating a state registry of animal breeders
One of the main provisions established by the new law is the creation of the State Registry of Animal Breeders (CECA). Only establishments properly registered in this system will be allowed to carry out animal sales. This measure aims to ensure that breeders comply with existing regulations and ensure the well-being of the animals they trade.
The role of Pet Shops as intermediaries
Despite the direct sale of animals being prohibited in pet shops, the new legislation allows these establishments to act as intermediaries between buyers and breeders. This means that customers will be able to place orders at pet shops, which will be responsible for connecting buyers with breeders registered in the CECA. This measure aims to facilitate responsible adoption processes and ensure that animals are acquired from reliable and regulated sources.
The inclusion of birds in the law
One of the issues that sparked debate during the discussion of the law was the inclusion of birds in the sales prohibition. While dogs and cats are universally considered domestic animals, the breeding and sale of birds have environmental restrictions due to the preservation of the free lives of these species. However, the law stipulates that only the most commonly traded birds in pet shops, such as parakeets and cockatiels, are considered domestic birds. This definition was made considering the market reality and the feasibility of raising these birds in suitable domestic environments.
Benefits and challenges of the new legislation
The prohibition of animal sales in pet shops brings various benefits for animal welfare and society as a whole. By restricting sales to registered breeders, the law combats illegal trade, the exploitation of breeding animals, and animal cruelty. Furthermore, the measure encourages responsible adoption, motivating people to seek animals in shelters and rescue organizations.
However, the new legislation also faces challenges. The lack of mention regarding the sale of fish, for example, could open loopholes for the continued trade of these animals in pet shops. It’s important for future regulations to address this issue and create clear guidelines for the sale of fish in commercial establishments.
Another point to consider is the need for more comprehensive legislation that explicitly prohibits the trade of wild animals. This measure would help control and prevent animal trafficking and the mistreatment of protected species.
The path to a more harmonious coexistence with animals
The approval of the law prohibiting the sale of animals in São Paulo’s pet shops is a significant milestone for animal protection and raising society’s awareness of the importance of animal welfare. This measure represents a significant step toward a more harmonious coexistence between humans and animals, where respect and compassion take center stage.
It is crucial for society to remain engaged in this cause, supporting initiatives that aim to protect animals, adopting animals from shelters, reporting cases of cruelty, and promoting awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership. Only through the collective efforts can we build a better future for our four-legged friends and the other species that share our planet.
Remember: adopting is an act of love and responsibility. If you’re considering adding a new member to your family, visit an animal shelter and give a chance to an animal in need of a home. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of these special beings.
