Brooke collaborates on new Pakistan equine laws
Brooke Pakistan hopes the new legislation will prevent cruelty to working equines.
Brooke, a working horse and donkey charity, has influenced a landmark animal welfare bill in Pakistan.
The Animal Welfare Bill 2024, which replaces 134-year-old legislation, is expected to prevent cruelty and improve the care of working animals across the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region.
It is the result of collaboration from Brooke Pakistan with the local government and livestock department. The charity had a central role in the drafting process and lobbying efforts, where it ensured horses, donkeys and mules were prioritised.
The new bill is designed to prevent the cruelty of working animals and promote their humane treatment and protection. This includes the identification and prohibition of acts including mutilation, harmful confinement and abandonment of working animals.
Penalties will be imposed on those found to be treating animals with cruelty or neglect.
The legislation also sets out the responsibilities linked to animal ownership, including provision of food, water, shelter and care. Veterinary procedures performed on the animals must follow international best practices.
Finally, the newly amended bill will encourage better engagement to ensure the public is better educated on animal rights and animal training.
The Animal Welfare Bill 2024 replaces the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1890, ensuring that working animals in Pakistan are treated in accordance to modern welfare standards.
Working animals play an important role in the livelihoods of many people in Pakistan, helping owners to earn an income. Brooke Pakistan works closely with local government and communities to ensure these animals are not suffering from malnutrition, exhaustion and disease.
The charity hopes that the new legislation will give horses, donkeys and mules healthier and happier lives.
Javed Iqbal Gondal, interim CEO at Brooke Pakistan, said: “This is a truly historic moment for all of us, as it marks the first time in Pakistan's history that comprehensive legislation focused on animal welfare has been successfully enacted.
“This milestone sets an important precedent, reflecting our commitment to improving the lives of animals, particularly working animals like donkeys, horses, and mules.”
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