KARACHI: Cruelty and maltreatment to animals could only be addressed through effective legislation and its implementation, said speakers at an event held at the Richmond Crawford Veterinary Hospital.

The programme was jointly organised by Brooke, an international charity for animals, and the department of livestock and animal husbandry in connection with the World Animal Day observed on Monday.

Welcoming the guests, Dr Sher Nawaz, regional manager of Brooke Pakistan (Sindh region), shared organisation’s operation in the country and said it was working in Punjab, Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

“In Pakistan, there are an estimated 4.75 million donkeys, horses, and mules as per government of Pakistan’s livestock census of 2006. Our teams work with needy communities, both in the private and the public sector, to create awareness and behaviour change to adopt best practices for animal welfare,” he said.

After the 18th Amendment, he pointed out, the mandate to make legislation on animal health and welfare was handed over to the provinces.

“The existing animal welfare act known as the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal’s Act 1890 needs be updated as per the current situation. Animal sufferings could only be reduced with the help of legislation,” he said.

In their speeches, Dr Mena Memon and Dr Masroor Pirzada, highlighted the importance of animals and their welfare especially the working equines as these animals were the only source of livelihood for many families.

Published in Dawn, October 6th, 2021