Animal-welfare bill in the works

We continue pushing for this bill to be enforced as law. On October 10, 2012, after the secretary-general of the TSPCA gave MPs an official statement on the key principles and scope of the bill, and after a long debate, this bill was passed by a vote of 325–0. All laws have to be deliberated by the Lower House (MPs) and Upper House (Senate). Currently, this bill has passed deliberation by an ad hoc committee, most of whose members were directly involved with the TSPCA. This past August 1 when the current parliamentary session began, 200 TSPCA supporters submitted a letter of appreciation and encouragement to the House speaker for supporting this bill.

There are many other bills under review in this parliamentary session, covering amnesty, flood prevention and infrastructure, among other issues. This could delay our mission to pass the Animal Welfare Bill, but it will be enshrined as law by the middle of next year. 

We also plan to improve zoo conditions by encouraging humane treatment. We will set the appropriate parameters necessary to keep zoo animals healthy. If zoos are able to abide by all the parameters, the TSPCA will issue a certificate of approval so Thai citizens and tourists can easily recognise a safe and healthy zoo environment. We believe all of our efforts will result in the betterment of animal lives.

Chaichan Laohasiripanya

Thai Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals