Party proposes ‘animal card’ to curb abuse

The Alternative party in Denmark proposes an ‘animal card’, similar to a driver’s license, to prevent animal welfare law violations. Offenders would receive a ‘clip’ on their card and a fine. A second violation would result in a larger fine, while a third would mean losing the right to keep animals, according to Helene Brydensholt, the party’s animal rights spokesperson. Highlighting the need for harsher penalties, she referenced a documentary exposing poor conditions in pig farms. The proposed system includes increased inspections after the first violation. The size of fines is undetermined, but they should be deterrents, with proceeds going to an animal victim fund. Minister of Food, Agriculture, and Fisheries Jacob Jensen welcomes the proposal and suggests doubling penalties for the most severe violations.