Mexican legislative reforms for animal cruelty

Legislators in different Mexican states are proposing reforms to strengthen animal welfare laws and increase penalties for cruelty.

In San Luis Potosí, Deputy Brisseire Sánchez López has introduced a proposal to amend the state Penal Code to criminalize the incitement of animal cruelty through digital and physical means. The initiative specifically targets the dissemination of material on social media that glorifies or encourages abuse for economic gain or recognition. Proposed penalties include five to twelve months of imprisonment, fines, and potential disqualification from animal care professions.

In Coahuila, following the discovery of 53 dogs at a single property, the state Congress is working on a Penal Code reform to increase penalties for maltreatment. This effort, supported by animal welfare associations, seeks to move beyond administrative sanctions toward criminal consequences such as imprisonment. The reform may also include the establishment of a specialized prosecutor’s office for cases involving sentient beings.

Recent developments in Coahuila have intensified these legislative efforts following an investigation into the Fundación Frichem in Castaños. Authorities are pursuing charges after dozens of dogs were found in critical condition, suffering from severe malnutrition and infestations. A caretaker, identified as Juan “N”, is currently in preventive detention, while the legal representative, Lizbeth “N”, is also under investigation. This case has further prompted discussions in the Coahuila Congress regarding penal reforms to increase prison sentences for crimes against sentient beings.