The bill provides that during the period of suspension, a public awareness campaign must be promoted with the motto "animals are not gifts", with the aim of making the population aware of the responsibilities associated with having pets.
“The decision to include an animal in a person's life should not be treated as offering/receiving a Christmas 'gift', but as a lifelong commitment”, said Inês de Sousa Real, leader of PAN, quoted in a statement released by the party.
The bill proposes that the campaign should be organised by the Government, with the collaboration of associations, and include educational actions, distribution of informative materials and clarification on the benefits of responsible adoption and the consequences of animal abandonment.
The bill establishes the suspension of sales in all commercial establishments and online platforms, including the direct and indirect sale of pet animals, and includes inspection measures by the General Directorate of Food and Veterinary, the Republican National Guard and other authorities.