Saudi Gazette Report

RIYADH — The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) has issued penalties and a fine of SR50,000 against individuals and establishments, for committing several behaviors that violate the animal welfare system of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Director General of the Department of Health and Veterinary Control at the Ministry of Environment Dr. Ali Al-Duwairj said that 8 violations were detected in many regions of the Kingdom.

The violations included:

• Not providing a suitable place for the animals.

• Malnutrition and not providing them with adequate food

• Displaying and selling sick, baby animals,

• Animals torture

The violations were monitored in five of the Kingdom’s regions, as 3 violations were monitored in the Eastern Province, two in the Asir region and one in each of Riyadh, Makkah and Hail regions.

Al-Duwairj confirmed that the ministry referred the violators to the competent authorities and forced them to address the violations.

The Ministry of Environment called on everyone to adhere to the animal welfare system regulations and requirements of the Gulf Cooperation Council, stressing the importance of immediately reporting any violation observed through the toll-free number 939.