Managua, April 20 (EFE-RHC)-- Some 200 people and their pets took to the streets of Managua on the weekend to call for implementation of the Animal Welfare and Protection Law and tougher punishment for those who abuse animals.

The protesters called on the National Assembly to implement the law, with marchers waving posters and banners, and chanting slogans in favor of animal rights.

The march wound its way on Saturday along a three-kilometer (1.8-mile) stretch of the highway to Masaya, one of the busiest roads in Managua.

The Animal Welfare and Protection Law was approved in November 2010 to prevent abuse of pets.
Animal lovers in this Central American country hope the legislation will be implemented to deal with animal abuse.