Regional regulations prohibiting the use and possession of poisoned lures.

Abstract

As far as the well-being of pets is concerned, the problems linked to poisoning are one of the aspects which has most greatly involved public opinion, and in the past has led the Regions to introduce new legislation. Article 21 of Law No. 157 of 11 February 1992 established ‘‘regulations for the protection of warm-blooded wild fauna and for game sampling’’, prohibiting the use of poisoned lures or food scraps and the application of penalties: namely, a fine of up to € 1,549.37. Furthermore, depending on the particular case, the legislation allows for further hypotheses of a criminal offence as provided for by the Penal Code. The sale of poisonous substances, utilised above all in the extermination of rats, is regulated by Royal Decree No. 1965 of 27 July 1934, which obliges vendors to keep a register in which are noted the personal particulars of the purchaser, the job or profession exercised, the substance purchased, and the relative quantity. Recently, in addition to sales, it has become necessary to extend the regulations to include the preparation, possession, and distribution of poisoned lures or food scraps. Until now, only two Regions – namely, Tuscany and Umbria – have promulgated laws dealing with the prohibition of the possession and use of poisoned lures, integrated in the 1992 Law (see References). The aims of the laws are to safeguard animals and human health, to ensure public hygiene, and to protect the environment.