Rome grants lifeline to rescued dogs, bolstering animal welfare efforts
A significant victory for canine survivors of illegal fighting rings: The Italian Ministry of Labour has unveiled a crucial funding framework to support organizations dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating these animals.
New regulations streamline resource allocation
The directive, stemming from Article 847 of Law 199/2025 (the 2026 Budget Law), will directly address the substantial costs associated with the care of animals seized from combat operations – a brutal and inhumane practice – as well as those exhibiting behavioral issues requiring specialized treatment.
This investment prioritizes facilities and organizations operating under the auspices of Third Sector Entities, crucial partners in providing comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Humane World for Animals Italia and Fondazione Cave Canem, longstanding advocates against dog fighting through their ‘I Don’t Fight’ project, have welcomed the development, born from constructive dialogue with Parliament and subsequent collaboration with the Ministry.
Minister bellucci highlights crucial support
“This decree enacts long-awaited legislation recognizing the invaluable work of operators and volunteers tirelessly caring for animals suffering from behavioral trauma stemming from this horrific exploitation,” stated Maria Teresa Bellucci, Vice-Minister for Labour and Social Policies. This sustained support alleviates the immense burden currently borne by Third Sector organizations and, critically, strengthens the vital partnership between institutions and civil society – a consistent priority for this government.
Bellucci praised the dedication of organizations like Humane World and Fondazione Cave Canem, emphasizing their commitment to restoring dignity and opportunity to animals victimized by a barbaric and illegal trade. The initiative represents a tangible step towards dismantling this criminal activity and fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and responsibility across the animal kingdom.
Experts call for continued action
Martina Pluda, Director of Humane World for Animals Italia, and Federica Faiella, President of Fondazione Cave Canem, expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s swift action. “This funding represents a fundamental advancement, ensuring the effectiveness of seizures and contributing to the long-term effort to combat this cruel and illegal practice,” they noted. These dogs, subjected to extreme violence, require structured rehabilitation pathways to overcome the profound trauma they’ve endured – a sustained, committed approach is paramount to ensuring their true recovery.
Senator bilotti urges further investment
Senator Anna Bilotti, the original sponsor of the amendment to the 2026 Budget Law, stated: “I am delighted by the Ministry’s publication of this decree, a clear signal of the government’s commitment to adequately supporting organizations providing a second chance to rescued fighting dogs. We will continue to advocate for the confirmation and strengthening of these resources, ideally expanding their scope beyond managing confiscated animals to include specialized training for law enforcement personnel combating these serious crimes.”
Key requirements for funding
The decree outlines eligible expenses, including animal reception and daily care, veterinary assistance, rehabilitation plan design, and sessions with behavioral trainers. To claim reimbursement, organizations must submit documentation proving animal placement and a self-certification demonstrating adherence to necessary requirements. Applications must be submitted after the publication of the call for proposals (expected by the end of the year) and no later than January 31st of the following year.
Through the ‘I Don’t Fight’ project, Humane World for Animals Italia and Fondazione Cave Canem have collaborated for years to prevent and combat dog fighting, providing scholarships, training courses for law enforcement, rehabilitation pathways for rescued dogs, conferences, webinars, and public awareness campaigns. Resources available to the public include an analysis of dog fighting cases in Italy, an informational guide for citizens, and an educational brochure for schools.