Company animals in Ecuador: normative analysis and challenges in the protection of canine and felines

Abstract

The legal protection of dogs and cats has gained increasing importance within Ecuador’s criminal justice system, reflecting a shift in societal perception toward animals as subjects of special protection. Despite legislative progress, including penal sanctions for cruelty and abandonment, normative gaps and enforcement shortcomings remain prevalent. Judicial actors often lack training, reporting rates are low, and oversight mechanisms are weak, limiting the effectiveness of existing regulations. Moreover, the absence of unified jurisprudential criteria fosters legal uncertainty. Strengthening the legal framework, promoting animal welfare policies, and enhancing public awareness are essential measures. The intersection of criminal, environmental, and constitutional law is crucial for ensuring comprehensive and effective protection of companion animals in Ecuador.