What about our closest furry companions ?
The Animal Welfare Act has been revised to give domestic animals and pets greater protection . There have been significant increases in fines for mistreatment and abandonment , but the biggest change is found in the adoption regulations . Every adopted animal must now be registered , with their welfare monitored throughout their lifespan . A free veterinary hospital is opening in every district .
Aparté
Une ( pas si ) chienne de vie !
The first steps may have been tentative , but the pace picked up as the full extent of the exploitation – or neglect – of animals gradually became clear . To start with , a successful overhaul of fishing laws allowed our ecosystems a breathing space . Hoteliers joined forces to increase the impact of this change , collectively taking a step back from motorised activities on the lagoon – a voluntary action Parliament was more than happy to codify . Land species were next in line for protection , as laws protecting the forests and nature reserves that are the habitats of wild mammals , reptiles and birds took effect .
Overwhelmed shelters : not any more !
Today , the “ deductible expenses ” section of your tax form features two new dependents : Moustache and Sac à Puces ! Adoption is one option , but national campaigns such as Trap-Neuter-Return ( TNR ) are also having an effect . This campaign has been embraced by private individuals and is supported by a robust process with training courses available to the public ; meanwhile , state subsidies for sterilisation have considerably reduced the costs of this procedure . Shelters now offer a calm environment , and staff can be confident that their animal charges will soon find loving families .
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