Practices such as docking a dog’s tail or clipping its ears for aesthetic reasons could soon become unlawful in Jalisco.
The Environment Commission of the Jalisco State Congress has approved reforms to the Protection and Care of Animals Law that will outlaw “altering the anatomical or biological shape of animals.”
The law would restrict any change to an animal´s appearance that is unrelated to its physical wellbeing.
Both the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in the United States and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in the United Kingdom oppose cosmetic tail docking of dogs because they consider the procedure an unnecessary one that compromises the welfare of the animals.
The draft law suggests imposing fines ranging from 896 to 26,886 pesos, depending on the seriousness of the offense.
Municipal councils, via their inspection and surveillance departments, will be responsible for enforcing the law.
In other animal welfare related news, the Jalisco Congress’ Environment Commission also approved legislation governing the sale of domestic animals, which can only be done in establishments that have adequate ventilation, lighting and food. Pets can be shown to clients for no more than ten minutes at a time, with a 30-minute rest period between demonstrations.
Both initiatives will move to the floor of the legislature for further discussion and voting.