The municipality of Leinì, in the Turin area, marks a historic turning point for Piedmont: the municipal council has in fact unanimously approved a new regulation that prohibits the sale and keeping of live animals in weekly markets. The objective is clear: to combat suffering, stress and inadequate conditions, often linked to overcrowded cages and repeated transportation. The decision also aims to reduce the health risks deriving from contact between different species and food. Leinì thus becomes the first Piedmontese municipality to introduce this measure, joining the group of over 20 virtuous Italian cities, including Milan, Rome, Monza, La Spezia, Bari and Lecce.
The birth of the “Not for sale” coalition
Leading this battle is the newly formed “Not for sale” coalition, formed by Animal Law Italia, the Animal association, the Network of Free Animal Sanctuaries and the Zoout collective. The coalition was created to clearly state that animals are not commodities, promoting responsible adoption choices and combating impulse purchases which often lead to abandonment and mistreatment. With the launch of the noninvendita.it portal, it will be possible to follow all the coalition’s campaigns and initiatives, with updates on new regulations and concrete actions in the area.
Because the ban is fundamental
The street selling of live animals in markets involves serious suffering: tiny cages, exposure to noise and extreme temperatures, continuous handling and stressful transport. From a public health point of view, this practice favors the spread of zoonotic diseases and concrete health and hygiene risks for those who frequent the markets. Banning the sale therefore means protecting both animals and people, while promoting an informed purchasing model.
The Leinì regulation
The new regulation establishes a complete framework for animal welfare: owners’ responsibility, prohibition of mistreatment and abandonment, rules on transport and detention, civic education and collaboration with veterinary bodies and associations. Some exceptions are foreseen only for events sponsored by the Municipality, always in compliance with the rules on well-being. For Animal Law Italia and the coalition, Leinì represents a first significant victory, destined to become a national model. The next objective is the Piedmontese capital, Turin, to follow suit, transforming respect for animals into a rule shared throughout the region.
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