Castelfranco di Sotto Mayor Orders Heat‑Protection Measures for Pets

Mayor Fabio Mini of Castelfranco di Sotto signed an ordinance to protect companion animals from extreme summer temperatures. The decree bans leaving dogs, cats and other pets on balconies, terraces, or exposed areas of homes when heat could cause suffering or death, and prohibits leaving them unattended in parked vehicles even with windows open. It also bans the sale and purchase of animals between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., requires that pets have constant access to fresh water, adequate ventilation, and shade, and forbids the use of chains or other coercive devices. The measures remain in force until 30 September and will be enforced by local police, who may impose fines or pursue legal action against violators.