Italy’s new animal welfare law came into force on 1 July. The so-called Brambilla Law increases penalties for cruelty and grants animals new legal status.
The law, championed by MP Michela Vittoria Brambilla, was approved by parliament earlier this year. Brambilla called it “a victory for civilisation”.
Under the new rules, animals are no longer treated as property. The law recognises them as sentient beings with legal rights.
- People who kill animals without justification now face up to four years in prison and a €60,000 fine.
- Mistreating an animal can lead to two years in prison and fines of up to €30,000.
- Organising animal fights carries up to four years in jail. Participating in them also brings criminal charges.
- Puppy trafficking now carries sentences of four to eighteen months. Fines range from €6,000 to €30,000.
Animals have new legal status
Judges must now consider aggravating factors. These include cases involving multiple animals, children, or online videos. The law also includes several bans. Tethering dogs is now illegal nationwide. The trade of domestic cat fur is banned.
In animal cruelty investigations, courts can no longer order euthanasia while trials are ongoing. Seized animals must be protected.
Brambilla said the law reflects growing public concern about cruelty and neglect. “We must treat animals with dignity,” she said. She also warned that enforcement will be crucial. “This is a cultural shift. The law must be applied consistently.”
Animal groups welcomed the new law. They said it fills legal gaps and protects animals more effectively than before.
