A ban on feeding dogs, cats, and wild birds issued by the mayor of Moschiano, a small town in Italy’s Avellino province, has ignited controversy. Mayor Angelo Mazzocca’s ordinance prohibits the distribution of food and water to these animals, with fines for violators ranging from €25 to €500. The measure was enacted in response to high concentrations of stray dogs and cats in parts of the municipality. Authorities stated these animals compromise urban decorum and pose public health risks for Moschiano’s 1,500 residents. Opposition council members and animal rights groups have condemned the order, demanding its revocation. They argue it lacks legal foundation, citing Italy’s 1991 national framework law which mandates that municipalities actively manage stray populations through non-punitive measures.
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