Animal protection law drafted
The draft is being presented to the Ministry of Agriculture and is expected
to go to the National Assembly of People�s Power soon
By Dora Pérez Sáez
(Taken from Juventud Rebelde)
THE Scientific Veterinary Council of Cuba has drafted a law to guarantee the
right to life of all animals in the country, according to Doctor María
Gloria Vidal, an expert with that institution.
"Together with the Cuban Association for the Protection of Animals and
Plants, a draft law was drawn up and presented to the Ministry of
Agriculture, and we expect that it will soon continue on its way to the
National Assembly," she explained.
Legal protection for animals, sterilization as a way of reducing the stray
dog population and safety for wild birds are some of the aspects to be
addressed by Cuban specialists at the 6th International Congress of the
Veterinary Sciences in Havana.
Dr. Videl said during a press conference that the event will give special
attention to the issue of animal well-being, in line with the goals of the
World Organization for Animal Health, of which Cuba has been a member since
1972.
"We approach our work from two standpoints. The scientific includes
improving productive process and facilities, improving the quality of
veterinary work, and facilitating comfortable, adequate systems in livestock
units."
"Our other task is educational. There are children who attack animals,
individuals who sponsor dogfights, people who throw things at animals in the
zoo, and others who have pets in inappropriate conditions... There are
diverse manifestations of mistreatment. Therefore, we are carrying out
educational work via the media and pioneers� (schoolchildren�s) circles of
interest."
The 6th Congress will also feature events on Parasitology, Naturalist and
Bioenergy Medicine, Veterinary Microbiological Diagnostics and Veterinary
Medicine for Disasters. Experts from 22 countries are expected to
participate.
(Translated by Granma International)
http://www.granma.cu/ingles/2007/abril/mar10/15animales.html
