Legal Measures for Animal Protection: The Case of Slaughtering Animals for Consumption

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the protection of animals in the context of slaughter for consumption under the Prevention of Cruelty and Animal Welfare Act, B.E. 2557 (2014). It examines relevant concepts, theories, and laws both in Thailand and internationally to propose revisions and improvements in legislation for better animal welfare. 

The study finds that the Prevention of Cruelty and Animal Welfare Act, B.E. 2557, emphasizes animal welfare principles while recognizing humans' rights to utilize animals, provided such utilization is conducted in appropriate and humane ways. Slaughtering animals for consumption is acknowledged as a permissible use of animals but must not be carried out cruelly or inhumanely. Section 21(2) stipulates the proper methods and practices for slaughtering animals in slaughterhouses, ensuring compliance with animal welfare principles, aligning with international standards. However, these standards apply exclusively to slaughterhouses and do not extend to animal slaughter for food as addressed under Section 21(1). 

The author suggests that, to ensure the appropriate protection and welfare of animals, slaughter for food under Section 21(1) should adhere to the same guidelines set forth in the Ministerial Regulation on Animal Slaughter Operations, B.E. 2564 (2021). Alternatively, exceptions for slaughtering animals for food must be humane, avoiding cruelty or causing unnecessary pain or suffering to the animals.