Dog On Behalf Of Brazilian President Signs Law Against Animal Cruelty

Throughout history, humans have established numerous laws and regulations to safeguard human rights. And similar to humans, animals are innocent and defenseless beings that also require protective measures. It's heartening to witness the growing awareness of this fact, which has led to the creation of more laws specifically for the welfare of animals. One remarkable instance occurred three years ago, when President Jair Bolsonaro introduced a unique law. Yet the uniqueness didn't stem from the law's content but from its signatory—the president's own dog.

Source: Animal Protection Foundation

In 2021, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro sanctioned a law that toughened penalties for those who mistreat dogs or cats, and he made his dog sign the law. The far-right leader initially opposed the measure, but eventually gave in to pressure, including that from his wife, Michelle de Paula Firmo.

Source: Animal Protection Foundation

Several dogs, including those belonging to the Bolsonaro family, Nestora, and a pit bull whose hind legs were amputated with a machete in July in a city in southeast Brazil, were also brought to the ceremony.

Source: Animal Protection Foundation

"I never had any doubts, even after learning of the first lady's approval in Congress," Bolsonaro said, smiling and looking almost guiltily at his wife, who was present at the ceremony in which he stamped his signature on the law with his dog in his arms.

“This fills a gap on the mistreatment of animals, an unspeakable thing that other animals that believe they are rational do,” said the ruler.

Source: Animal Protection Foundation

The previous law in Brazil imposed prison terms of between three months and a year for animal abuse, but this new one increased the penalty to a maximum of five years—but only if dogs or cats were the victims of the aggression. It also forbids convicted individuals from having any animals in their possession.

Source: Animal Protection Foundation

When the law was first proposed, Bolsonaro made it clear that he intended to veto it because he believed that the potential prison sentences of up to five years for those who abuse these animals were excessive. “Whoever abandons a newborn has a sentence of six months to three years. So, how who mistreats a dog or a cat is going to spend up to five years in jail, “he said.

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