Opinion | Editorials
Law gives teeth to animal rights
It is a welcome step in prosecuting abusive owners and ensuring the welfare of animals.
- Gulf News
- Published: 23:35 August 3, 2008
The Ministry of Environment and Water has approved a draft law imposing stiff penalties for those who mistreat animals. Under the law, to be passed this month, owners and keepers of animals will be required to take all reasonable steps to ensure the welfare of animals.
The new law requires that those looking after animals must ensure they are adequately protected from the weather and predators, have a fresh and continuous supply of water, and have a wholesome diet appropriate for their age and species.
The new law also allows for fines of Dh5,000 to Dh20,000 and prison terms for severe violators.
The animal welfare is to be welcomed, and the ministry should be lauded for its foresight. A marine mammal guide is also being prepared, and we welcome its introduction - sooner rather than later.
Those who mistreat, abuse or impose suffering on animals deserve to endure the full rigours of the law.
Opinion Editor's choice
-
Russia, China complicit in Syria carnage
By Fawaz Turki, Special to Gulf News
By their double veto at the UN, they have chosen to back the Al Assad regime that is already wet spaghetti
-
Two prime ministers in trouble
By Kuldip Nayar, Special to Gulf News
Gilani faces contempt of court charge while Singh encounters moral responsibility in 2G scam case
-
Moving towards honest democracy
By Vladimir Putin, Prime Minister of Russia
Russia needs to unbundle power and property and separate executive power from system of checks over it
Your turn
