PAN has announced that it will submit a complaint to the prosecutor after a man confessed to SIC’s “Terra ours” program, amputated a dog’s paw because the animal was “very fast”. The case generated indignation, especially because the moment was received with laughter by the audience and even the presenter, César Mourão.
The party leader, Inês Sousa Real, recalled that mistreating animals of company is a crime in Portugal, as provided for in Law No. 69/2014. The viewer’s confession occurred during the emission transmitted last Saturday, in São Pedro do Sul. According to his own, the amputation was made intentionally with the only reason the dog rushed too much.
Inês Sousa Real states that this kind of situations cannot be ignored, even in a context of entertainment. He also stressed that the PAN will ask the court to identify the man and that if the facts are confirmed, he advances with an accusation. In addition, the party will ask for the removal of any animals that are still careful of the suspect.
PAN also intends to contact SIC, considering that programs with large audience should not normalize violent behaviors through humor. The party leader stresses that television has social responsibility and that animal suffering should not be laughing.
Portuguese legislation provides for a prison sentence up to one year or a fine up to 120 days for those who inflict abuse to animals of company, without legitimate justification. If these acts cause the death of the animal or serious and permanent injuries, such as loss of limbs or inability to move around, the penalty may reach two years in prison or fine up to 240 days.
