Oaxaca Takes Historic Step for Animal Protection
Comprehensive Animal Protection Legislation
In a landmark move for animal welfare in Mexico, Oaxaca has become the final state to pass comprehensive animal protection legislation. On November 11, 2024, the Oaxaca Congress unanimously approved its first Animal Protection and Welfare Law, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards a more compassionate society.
This groundbreaking law recognizes animals as sentient beings, a crucial acknowledgment that sets the stage for more humane treatment across the state.
The legislation covers a wide range of protections, including:
- Provisions to prevent and ban animal cruelty and abuse
- Establishment of responsible pet ownership guidelines in public schools
- Mandated spay-neuter campaigns for companion animals
- Perhaps most notably, the law extends protections to farm animals raised for human consumption, including pigs, cows, chickens, and hens, during their breeding and slaughter phases1. This makes Oaxaca the third state in Mexico to adopt comprehensive protections for these often-overlooked animals, following similar reforms in Hidalgo and Colima
Dr. Claudia Edwards, program director for Humane Society International (HSI)/Mexico, expressed her enthusiasm: “It is inspiring to see that, with political will, open dialogue between all interest holders, and the technical guidance of veterinarians, Oaxaca now has a law that not only protects animals but also safeguards their welfare and recognizes them as sentient beings”. Claudia operates the nonprofit Dogs of Puerto Angel and devotes her life to rescuing some of the worst cases of abused, abandoned, sick, or injured dogs in the Puerto Angel area.
This achievement is the result of years of collaborative effort. HSI/Mexico has been instrumental in providing advice during the legislative process, participating in academic and regulatory discussions, and facilitating dialogue between interested parties. Their continued involvement through training and conferences will be crucial in ensuring effective implementation of the new law.
The law’s passage also owes much to the support of various organizations, including the Association of Veterinary Specialists of Oaxaca, the Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca, and The Center for Social Studies and Public Opinion of the Congress of Oaxaca.
As Mexico continues to make strides in animal welfare legislation, Oaxaca’s new law serves as a beacon of progress. It demonstrates that with dedication, collaboration, and compassion, significant changes can be made to improve the lives of animals and create a more humane society for all.
Humane Society International (HSI) will continue to assist authorities with implementation of the bill through trainings and conferences. This ongoing support will be crucial for the effective enforcement of the new protections.
By addressing various aspects of animal welfare, from companion animals to farm animals, and incorporating both preventive measures and educational initiatives, this law represents a significant step forward for animal protection in Oaxaca. It closes a critical gap, as Oaxaca was previously the only state in Mexico without comprehensive animal protection legislation.
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