The Italian ban on fish bowl's???

Question

I was surfing the net and came across a news item that says Italy has passed a law banning small fish bowl's, and that dog owner's have to walk there dog's at least three times a day.

I was just wondering what your oppionion on this was, and do you think it would be a good idea for pet owners to have to be licenced???

Before you get irate I only ask because of a debate at work, and I just want other peoples views on the subject.

Thanks A lot
E.

Answer 1

I've seen this topic discussed in the reptile forum in the past as well.

I think the "intent" of folks behind these ideas is good - concern over the animals' welfare, promoting education of potential owners the species they want to keep before you buy. Several US states already have such legislation in place governing the keeping of exotics or wildlife. My pets' veterinarian works with confiscated exotics, and there is a several-year mentoring period for other folks who want to own thesse exotics so they can learn the proper care, diet, etc. He's got several people interning with him at all times. Some states require wildlife rehabilitators to have some sort of state licensing or certification and are required to pass a test showing that they understand the needs of the species they work with in regards to proper housing, diet, and so on. I think the proposed "laws" are intended as an extension of that.

And come on, how many times have you seen a question in this forum and thought to your self, "Geeze, what are you people thinking?!" when you read the stocking levels, species trying to be kept (together, or in too small of a tank), and so forth? It would be nice if people did a little research on that iridescent shark, Columbian shark, pufferfish, turtle, chameleon, spider monkey, parakeet, or whatever - before they bought it. And a whole lot better of a lifestyle for the purchased animal. I think the majority of pet owners will do a little reading about the care (eventually), and that's why places like this forum exist - educating pet owners. But education only goes so far - and often comes too late for the benefit of the animals.

Add to that, too many people are prone to "impulse buying", and the regulations don't directly target the subjects of most impulse buys - the "designer animals" (hybrids, dyed, fish, tattooed fish), "rare finds", or the people making these available.

While I think the intent is good, I believe these laws will fall short for two reasons - people aren't going to like additional rules to take away their "personal choice/freedom" to take care of their own pets and lack of any realistic enforcement (who's going to check how many times you walk your dog or measure your fish tank - and heaven forbid, that you forget to top off the tank and the water volume is less than what's required for your species at that age/size!). Not to mention any "invasion of privacy" issues of having to come into your home to check on the welfare of indoor pets.

Answer 2

Pet ownership licensing would be very good for the animals. So many people buy fish because they're sooo pretty,without the slightest idea on how to care for them. And the usual out-come is dead and mistreated livestock and ex-pet owners who think that the pet store ripped them off. Just reading this and other forums should be enough to convince anyone that people are trying to care for fish with no idea at all as to what the fishes needs are or how to supply the required environment. Sure it would be an infringement on pet owners "freedom",but freedom is not the right to be irresponsible. People should not be allowed to buy an aquarium and fish on the same day. Now,let me get off of this soapbox. --Good luck.----PeeTee

Answer 3

I think this law is a joke, to make Italy seem more politically active. They can pass all these laws, but do you think the police force will actually take the time to arrest/fine all the people who forget to walk there dog once or twice a day, or maybe are sick in bed and cant. These laws are proof that the world is becoming soft, and not realizing that god gave us domain over all animals not the other way around.

Answer 4

The fijshbowl thing is a good idea, its animal cruelty to have fish in way too small containers. :( Great job Italy!