Sanctions against Animal Cruelty.

As of May 2nd, Panama will apply prison sentences to animal abusers.

People who are convicted of a crime of mistreatment against animals must serve sentences of between 18 and 24 months in prison, or the equivalent in days of weekend arrest or fines.

Patricia Chan , director of Spay Panama, considered that the prison sentence, although commutable, is a great advance in the preventive justice of the country.  Chan recalled that it has been proven, scientifically, that "people who mistreat animals are more likely to commit violent crimes against other people. The director of Spay Panama announced that they will continue to promote initiatives to enforce the lives of animals and their rights.

 Erika Velásquez and Gerardo Gansas , of Patas y Pies, indicated that "it is the education and the sensitization of the population that will cause a more substantial change regarding the respect of animals in Panama".  They added that the reform of the Penal Code is an iconic symbol in the valuation of life, "a motivating motor for those of us who continue to fight for this noble and important cause."

Elena Castejón, from the San Francisco de Asís Foundation, agreed with the spokespersons of Spay Panama and Patas y Pies, and also emphasized that "the law does not do justice" and that enforcing it is everyone’s job.

Karina Bazán , president of the Angels of the Animals Association, for her part, called on the community to be aware and remember that compassion is key to reducing the incidence of animal abuse.