Mexican states enact new animal welfare laws

The State of Mexico approved a comprehensive Animal Protection, Care and Welfare Law that strengthens penalties for cruelty, creates a statewide pet registry, and legally recognises multi‑species families. The law establishes animal‑wellness monitoring units, a citizen council, and dedicated centres for veterinary care, rescue, sterilisation, vaccination and adoption.

In the neighbouring state of Morelos, legislators passed a law obligating each municipality to set up an Animal Welfare office with budget and trained staff. The legislation recognises animals as sentient beings and aims to curb abuse by enforcing responsible pet ownership and providing mechanisms to address abandonment, neglect and violence against animals.