Leash Becomes Law: Dogs Must Be Tethered on Walks From May 1

For years, Beijingers have been advocating for stricter leash laws, but with the latest measures aiming to prevent the spread of disease among pets, puppers nationwide will have to be leashed up for walks beginning May 1.

While parts of Beijing have previously implemented local rules, this will mark the first time that capital dog owners will have to face legal consequences for failure to leash.

In typical fashion, however, the law has neglected to mention what exactly those consequences will be, nor was any specification for the length of the leash given. But Xinhua News has pointed to a law in Nanjing that fined first-time offenders with a forgiving fee of just RMB 50, adding greater fines for repeat offenders, or even confiscating dogs in some cases, which could be used as a model for enforcement.

The law also stipulates that dogs must wear identifying tags.

Pet owners need not worry too much about the remainder of the 12-chapter law, the bulk of which is aimed at regulators and veterinary professionals, but it does serve as a reminder to have your pets vaccinated as necessary.

READ: Beijing Pet-iquette: Tips on Responsible Pet Ownership in the Capital

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