The new law reflects a growing trend in Russia to address public safety concerns related to pet ownership.
The proposed penalties for promoting animal cruelty indicate a shift towards stricter animal welfare regulations in Russia.
As public awareness of pet ownership responsibilities increases, more pet owners may comply with regulations to avoid fines.
The introduction of penalties for promoting animal cruelty could lead to a decrease in such activities and greater protection for animals.
On November 26, 2024, the State Duma of Russia passed a significant law aimed at enhancing pet ownership responsibilities by imposing fines for violations related to pet care. The law, which amends the Code of Administrative Offenses (CAO), establishes penalties for pet owners who fail to comply with regulations, particularly concerning the walking of dogs in public areas without proper restraints such as muzzles and leashes. The fines range from 1,500 to 3,000 rubles for individuals, 5,000 to 15,000 rubles for officials, and 15,000 to 30,000 rubles for legal entities.
The legislation was prompted by a notable increase in dog attacks, with State Duma deputy Alexander Tolmachev highlighting the urgency of the issue. He noted that many attacks are perpetrated by dogs that are not properly restrained, emphasizing the need for owners to take responsibility for their pets' behavior. This law aims to curb such incidents by enforcing stricter penalties on negligent pet owners.
In addition to the pet ownership law, the State Duma is also considering a bill aimed at penalizing the promotion of animal cruelty. This proposed legislation would impose fines ranging from 5,000 to 100,000 rubles depending on the violator's status, whether an individual, official, or organization. The initiative reflects growing concerns about the treatment of animals and aims to deter harmful behaviors, including the distribution of materials that promote cruelty.
The recent legislative actions by the State Duma also included a ban on the sale of gas-containing products to minors and the introduction of a legal definition for 'student families,' which pertains to young parents under 35 years of age.
