With the final vote of the Senate, the Parliament has approved the reform of the Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure, which strengthens and harmonizes the discipline on offenses against animals. The measure, a parliamentary initiative with Michela Vittoria Brambilla as the initial signatory, has garnered widespread bipartisan support. Among the main changes is the revision of Title IX-bis of the penal code: protection is no longer limited to the human feeling toward animals, but directly extends to animals as sentient beings and bearers of rights. The legislation increases the penalty for mistreatment: up to four years in prison and a fine of 60,000 euros for those who kill an animal with cruelty, and up to two years and 30,000 euros for mistreatment. Penalties are tripled in the event of aggravating circumstances, including the involvement of multiple animals, the presence of juveniles, or online dissemination. The penalty for those who engage in animal fights is 2 years of imprisonment and a fine of 30 thousand euros, while the penalty for the organizers is 4 years of imprisonment and a fine of 160 thousand euros. Habitual organizers of fights or puppy trafficking may be subject to anti-mafia code measures. The law also establishes a nationwide ban on keeping dogs chained and provides for the permanent custody of seized animals to associations, upon payment of a bond.