The Dog Walking Law of 2022 was adopted on December 28, 2018. Its official number is Federal Law No. 498 “On the Responsible Treatment of Animals.” Based on Federal Law No. 248, changes were made to some legislative acts of the Russian Federation. Walking dogs, rules and requirements for keeping them, as well as cats, became the main points of the regulatory document. Since January 1, 2022, it has been included in the legislation in force in the country, but some articles have come into force this year, 2022.
Dogs walking on the street
Examples from life
Residents of large and small cities quite often face an unpleasant situation when they are forced to literally “share” a single recreation area with dogs. Moreover, these animals are not homeless, but are walked by their owners in local areas, playgrounds, parks and squares.
This is where negative situations arise that can not only lead to conflict between “dog walkers” and other vacationers, but also, in the worst case scenario, cause damage to health. Most often people encounter the following problems:
- Walking large and medium-sized dogs, as well as fighting breeds, without a muzzle or leash.
- Having dogs in close proximity to or directly on the playground.
- Contamination of public areas with animal excrement that is not removed by their owners, as happens in many countries where laws on keeping pets are fully operational.
- Damage to property by animals. But it should be taken into account that not every damage to the property of third parties will be considered by law as a situation for compensation by the owner of the animal.
- Sometimes there are situations when owners leave their pets in public corridors.
- And finally, the most negative thing is harm to health as a result of an animal attack.
Based on the presented list of possible situations, every citizen, regardless of whether he is the owner of a pet or the person who could potentially suffer from it, should know the set of laws and regulations. After all, they are the ones who regulate the residence of pets in the same territory as humans, that is, in the urban environment and in other settlements, including farms, villages and small towns.
Rules for walking on dog parks
The legislation provides for the organization of separate areas for walking pets. For example, walking without a muzzle and a leash is allowed on areas that are marked with a special warning sign.
The following requirements apply to the walking area:
- area of at least 400 sq. m;
- the height of the fence to enclose the territory is at least 2 meters;
- the distance to children's and educational institutions is at least 40 meters;
- residential and commercial buildings must be located at least 25 meters away.
In addition, the coverage of the territory must be updated annually, and dog boxes must be installed within the site. The condition of the dog walking area is monitored by the local government.
You may also find the rules for walking dogs during a pandemic and self-isolation helpful.
Laws in effect in 2021
As of 2022, walking rules
and keeping
dogs
, which are governed by the following laws and regulations:
- Federal Law of the Russian Federation No. 498 “On the responsible treatment of animals”. This law
prescribes not only the owner’s obligation to the pet he acquires, but also establishes rules
for dog walking
, which began to take effect
in 2022
. Although it was adopted back in 2022. - In a situation where an animal (dog) is used by the owner to intentionally cause damage to the property of another person, Art. 167 (part 2) of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. But, only in the case when the total damage caused exceeds the estimated amount of 5,000 rubles.
- But if mistakes were made when keeping
an animal, as a result of which harm was caused to human health, Art. 118 (part 1) of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. - In case of special baiting of an animal, which results in death, the owner is held accountable under Art. 105 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation.
Therefore, it is so important to fulfill all the necessary conditions associated with keeping an animal. And, although cases of special damage to private property by animals do not occur very often, pet owners should not forget about proper care for their “smaller brothers.” After all, what is
dog walking is a legal definition
, so even this seemingly insignificant point imposes certain obligations on dog owners.
Next, we will consider some of the subtleties of keeping pets and the rules governing them.
Rules of the subjects of the Russian Federation
Rules for keeping dogs
, which came into force on January 1, 2022, regulate the following issues related to animals, both in apartment buildings and in the private sector:
- Walking animals is prohibited on the territory of playgrounds, schools, educational institutions, medical institutions and green areas that belong to these facilities.
- The rules for walking dogs in Moscow
and
St.
Petersburg began to be regulated even earlier. For example, in the capital, restrictions were adopted back in 2022, and control over them was quite demanding. - The law on barking dogs in the private sector
and in city apartments establishes a temporary noise limit during the periods from 22.00 to 7.00 on weekdays and from 22.00 to 9.00 on weekends.
It is also worth observing silence during the daytime period from 13.00 to 14.00. It is during these time intervals that barking
and howling should be excluded, as this may lead to complaints from neighbors and, as a result, a possible fine for the owner.
And this applies to both urban and rural
areas. - As for the rules for walking dogs, there are also strict restrictions for large and fighting breeds in terms of the age of the person accompanying him, as well as the presence of a leash, collar and muzzle on the animal.
It is these features and limitations that should be taken into account when deciding whether to
get an animal of a certain breed and where
to keep
throughout the pet’s life.
Rules for walking in public places
Walking the dog
by law it is necessary in certain places, avoiding the appearance of kindergartens, schools, hospitals and playgrounds in the areas. It is also worthwhile for the vast majority of breeds to use a leash, muzzle and collar during walks.
And in order to completely avoid claims from other residents of the area, it is advisable to go to specially designated places. But, unfortunately, not all cities in the country have areas that are specifically designed for walking pets. Therefore, it is worth relying on the existing rules for walking dogs and existing opportunities in each specific locality.
Where can you walk your dogs?
In order to walk your dogs in accordance with all established rules and not incur legitimate discontent from other citizens, you must follow the following rules:
- Choose the right places to walk your dogs
. These could be parks or suburban areas. But, if an animal is led along the sidewalk, transferred across the road, brought in or out of residential buildings, or appears near playgrounds or other public places, then it must be wearing a leash and collar. - As for the muzzle, in the above cases it is mandatory only for those breeds that are classified as “dangerous”. Therefore, animal owners need to know exactly
which
dogs
are allowed
to walk without a muzzle
, and in which cases they cannot do without one. - Without these special means, you can walk your dog in specially designated areas or forest belts that are not green areas.
Where is it illegal to walk dogs?
Pet owners need to know exactly where they can walk their dogs
different breeds, and where it is strictly prohibited. It is prohibited to appear with an animal in the following territories:
- On the territory of a school
and preschool educational institution (kindergarten). - On the hospital grounds.
- In green areas, as well as those that have protected status.
This is where dogs are prohibited
, regardless of what breed the animal belongs to and what its dimensions are.
Regarding the situation when dogs are walked in the courtyard of an apartment building
, then this is acceptable. But only if the owner of the animal ensures the safety of others who are in the same territory. This means that according to the norms, the animal must be on a leash and with a collar, and for certain breeds, also in a muzzle.
Regarding walking dogs on the playground
, then this is prohibited by law without special accessories restricting the movement of the animal.
A dog can be free on the territory of a private house if there is a fence that does not allow it to escape outside. But if you keep a fighting breed, then it is necessary to equip the fence and entrance area with a sign
, which warns of danger.
List of muzzled dogs for walking 2021
In addition to the basic rules, you also need to focus on the breed of the animal. After all, there are both small dogs that do not exceed the size of a cat, and large animals that pose a potential danger to others.
List of breeds that must appear in public places only wearing a muzzle and on a leash:
- All animals larger than 15 kg in weight must be on a leash and wearing a collar while walking.
- Dogs
belonging to fighting and service dogs, as well as the vast majority of hunting dogs. - Although there are no clear restrictions on breeds, and they may vary somewhat, depending on the region, nevertheless, all varieties of bulldogs, Dogo Argentino, crosses of a wolf and a dog, mastiffs, pit bull terriers, boxers, bandogs and some other breeds are prohibited from appearing without a muzzle everywhere. characterized by aggressiveness.
Which dogs can be walked without a muzzle?
Despite the fact that there are dog breeds for which it is not serious to put a muzzle on them, the rules still do not clearly regulate their list. As a rule, strict requirements for the presence of a muzzle are not imposed on the following breeds:
- Spitz.
- Toy terriers.
- Bolonkam.
- Chihuahua.
As well as other dwarf and decorative breeds of dogs that are small in size.
But it is still recommended that owners of such pets control the animal and walk it on a leash, as it can frighten a child or cause concern to other people.
Self-walking dogs - is it prohibited by law or not?
Self-walking
dogs are prohibited - no matter what the size and what breed the animal belongs to.
It is also prohibited:
- Walking an animal while intoxicated.
- Walking dogs whose body weight exceeds 15 kg, and which are considered fighting or especially aggressive, is prohibited by persons under 14 years of age.
Review of current legal regulations
Owners are required to follow the rules for walking dogs, as well as ensure the safety of people around them, other animals, and prevent damage to property. Strict requirements regarding the mandatory wearing of a muzzle remain in relation to breeds that pose a potential threat.
When going for a walk with your pet, prepare the appropriate equipment. An animal of any breed (even a small and “safe”) one must have a leash and collar (belt). It is recommended to attach a tag to the collar indicating the owner's contact information.
Also, according to the law, you must clean up after the animal. Therefore, for a walk you need to take disposable bags and a small scoop.
It must be taken into account that changes in the legislative sphere are made not only at the national, but also at the local level. For example, an initiative group can organize pet walking on the territory of a closed residential complex. Residents often designate a separate walking area in the yard and also fine violators.
Liability and fines
Owners need to be clearly aware that
they may be fined violating the rules
for keeping pets Its amount depends on what kind of offense occurred and how serious the consequences are.
For example, the fine
for walking dogs in the wrong place
in Moscow ranges from 1,500 rubles, while in St. Petersburg the mayor’s office considered the necessary amount to be up to a maximum of 5,000 rubles.
In a situation where a dog causes damage to a person’s property, a fine and compensation are also due. But liability for the owner occurs only if the damage was caused in the amount of at least 500 rubles.
It is necessary to understand that if the dog’s actions did not lead to negative consequences for human health, then the fines and liability of the owners are regulated by the Code of Administrative Offenses
. If harm was caused to health, then the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation comes into force.
List of violations
When considering situations in which fines may be imposed on an animal owner, it is worth highlighting the following points:
- Fine for failure to remove from a dog
from public areas.
It can be imposed on almost any territory that is under the control of public utilities. For example, a fine for dog excrement
will have to be paid if, while walking the animal, the owner is caught in violation and it is recorded that it was his animal that caused the contamination of the area. The amount is collected in favor of the state, or rather a specific municipality. - You will also have to pay for damaging someone else's property. Here the amounts will be recovered both in favor of the victim and in favor of the state.
- A fine may also be imposed if the dog has had an insignificant negative impact on human health.
Fines and criminal liability
What will happen to the violator? What is the fine for walking a pet in the wrong place?
Administrative
liability arises for minor offenses.
For example, such as a fine for walking
in the wrong place or leaving excrement behind a dog.
But if the dog caused harm to health, which is assessed as moderate or severe, then the owner will already be held accountable under the criminal code and bear criminal liability. In some cases, getting away with a fine will no longer be possible. The owner faces a real criminal sentence if a dog kills a person due to insufficient control or connivance on the part of the pet owner.
Who controls
As for the regulatory authorities that can create the responsibility of the owner, such powers are available to:
- State inspectors of Rosselkhoznadzor.
- Public inspectors.
But, since reality in the vast majority of cases diverges from reality, residents of the houses themselves have to fight for the cleanliness of public areas and compliance with all norms and rules. They can record the situation, shoot a video and send a complaint to the authorities, which have the ability to punish the unscrupulous pet owner.
The simplest and most effective method of dealing with unscrupulous dog owners is a situation in which an active person takes on the responsibility of becoming a public inspector. In this case, he receives certain powers and the ability to influence the situation. To implement this, you need to submit a corresponding application to Rospotrebnadzor.
About the bill
If previously it was impossible to be in public places without a muzzle, today you can lead your dog through a park, road, sidewalk, using only a leash. But owners of dogs considered potentially dangerous must use a leash and muzzle.
Without a leash or with a leash? When going for a walk, you should give preference to a short leash so that you can quickly pull the dog back if it behaves aggressively. Be sure to have a tag on the collar containing information about the pet, as well as the phone number and full name of the owner. This is necessary in case the pet runs away without a leash.
Persons who are intoxicated should not walk dogs. The law also states that children under 14 years of age cannot walk with a dog weighing more than 15 kg. You can let your dog out without a leash only in specially fenced areas. This is an area with a fence, which has appropriate signs to indicate it. Large cities are equipped with places where there are containers where waste is collected.
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Situations
Depending on the situation, you will have to contact different authorities. It all depends on what the dog owner does not comply with and what consequences these violations led to.
What to do if you are bitten by someone else's dog
If a dog attack occurs resulting in bites, the victim must:
- Seek medical help and obtain all the necessary documents from the medical institution.
- Contact the police department at your place of residence.
- To write an application.
- Collect all the necessary documents and attach them to the paper.
- Contact the magistrates' court if the amount of damage falls within the limits of 50,000 rubles. And to the district court if the amount is more than specified.
What to do if your dog damages property
In this case, the sequence of actions is as follows:
- Record the damage caused. It is advisable to involve witnesses.
- Write a statement to the police.
- Go to court for compensation.
But, as a rule, it is worth first trying to resolve the conflict situation voluntarily with the owner of the animal. A fine is imposed on the dog owner only from the moment it reaches 5,000 rubles.
What does it mean if there is a “no dog walking” sign?
Such a sign
must be installed in places where walking dogs in any form is strictly prohibited. This allows pet owners to navigate and not break any part of the law. But if a violation occurs, this only increases the level of responsibility.
Is it possible to carry a dog in transport - train, plane, public transport?
Animals can be transported in any type of transport, but certain conditions must be met:
- On trains, dogs are kept in compartments, and the owner of the animal must buy all available seats. It is prohibited to transport animals in carriages with seats. Only one animal per owner can be transported.
- You can carry your dog on the plane in a special carrier, and large breeds with a special restraint.
Transportation rules
If the walk includes travel on public transport, the pet owner must comply with the rules established by the carrier. For example, some allow animals to be placed in a separate place in a cage. If there are no clear requirements, then in controversial situations the parties are guided by the national rules for the carriage of passengers.
The owner has the right to place the pet in a separate seat, while paying double the fare. If the transport is completely filled with passengers, it is recommended to transfer the dog to your lap (pick it in your arms, place it on the floor).
When boarding the aircraft, the owner must provide the following documents:
- veterinary certificate indicating which vaccinations have been received;
- certificate of the pet’s health status, issued at the veterinary clinic (with a note indicating when the last vaccination was carried out).
Requirements for ground transportation are not as strict. But in order to avoid controversial situations, it is better to always have the listed documents with you.
It must be taken into account that the rules for walking and transportation also take into account the weight categories of dogs. For example, individuals weighing no more than 5 kg can walk without a muzzle, and only aircraft charge for the transportation of such pets.
It is recommended to transport small pets in containers. Large dogs are usually placed in the back seats of vehicles.
The general rule for all breeds is this: the pet should not be allowed to move freely around the cabin and interfere with other passengers and the driver.
Teach commands
The pet must clearly understand basic commands. So that if necessary, your prohibition would be enough to calm the dog. Among the main required commands:
- "near";
- "to me";
- "ugh";
- "sit".
The animal must understand and follow commands the first time.
A dog's behavior is the result of human upbringing. Therefore, the owner bears full responsibility for the actions of his four-legged friend. If you start instilling certain norms in your puppy from an early age, it will not be difficult for him to strictly follow them in the future.
What dog breeds are recognized as potentially dangerous?
The Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation has determined which breeds of dogs must be walked with a muzzle. This list is approved at the legislative level.
Despite opposition and arguments from dog lovers, they are legally considered to be dangerous due to a genetic predisposition to aggression.
The list was compiled on the basis of Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation dated July 29, 2019 N 974 “On approval of the list of potentially dangerous dogs.” Currently it includes:
- Brazilian Bulldog;
- American Bandog;
- bandog;
- bulli-kutta;
- Akbash;
- gul-dog;
- North Caucasian dog;
- Pit Bull Mastiff;
- ambuldog;
- Alapaha Otto.
The fighting list also includes all mestizos of the above-mentioned breeds and any hybrids of a dog and a wolf.
Important! All listed breeds must wear a muzzle. Walking without it is strictly prohibited.
Owners of all other large breeds must also take their pet outside only if they follow safety rules.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has compiled a list of dangerous dogs that should only be walked with muzzles.
Which dog breeds need to wear a muzzle?
Regardless of whether the dog is included in the list of potentially dangerous breeds or not, the owner must wear full equipment for a walk. If a pet is prone to aggression, it should be restricted in the muzzle area; without this, you cannot even go out with it. This is an important point, as even small dogs can cause serious harm.
According to the Regulations, if the dog is not on the list of dangerous breeds, the absence of a muzzle will not be considered a violation. But the owner must constantly monitor his behavior and remain vigilant.
In accordance with the law, the dog owner bears full administrative and criminal responsibility for all actions of his pet.
Muzzle requirements
There are no clear requirements for the material or size of the muzzle, as is the case with a leash. In order not to harm the animal and not create situations where the dog can simply chew and remove the muzzle, when choosing a device, it is better to rely on the following tips:
- Buy a muzzle that is safe for your dog - completely breathable and allowing the animal in the muzzle to fully open its mouth.
- Select the product by size. The muzzle should not cut into the animal's nose and not interfere with vision. This condition is a guarantee of the safety of others.
Disposal of excrement
When walking a dog, the owner is required to collect feces in a bag. To do this, he should always have plastic bags and a scoop with him.
Photo: gavrilovdeniss/ Pinterest
Containers can only be thrown into special dog boxes. Excrement should not be in common containers or mixed with household and food waste.
From the author! Currently, this rule is difficult to implement due to the lack or small number of special containers. There are no fines for throwing bags into general trash cans.
