The law will take effect one year after publication. This is the second attempt to introduce such a ban; Nawrocki vetoed an earlier version in 2025.
In a video posted on Friday on the President Office’s X profile, Nawrocki said he approved the amendment. He recalled that he vetoed the previous proposal because it was “poorly drafted, overregulated, and imposed obligations many people would not be able to meet.”
“The goal of protecting animals is justified, but the law must be feasible. The state cannot turn concern for animal welfare into another financial penalty for citizens. Today we have a better law, with positive feedback from entities such as the agricultural local government,” he said.
The ban on tethering will apply to both dogs and cats. The regulations include exceptions for situations such as transport, exhibitions, or medical procedures. Short‑term or incidental tethering outside the animal’s usual place of residence will also be allowed under conditions set by the owner, provided the animal’s well‑being is not compromised. The amendment permits tethering a dog briefly in front of a store.
The law allows dogs to be kept in kennels if free movement cannot be ensured due to lack of fencing or if the dog poses a threat to people or other animals. Kennels must provide enough space for natural movement, be durable and stable, and have at least two sides with openings for ventilation.
Owners must provide daily exercise suited to the dog’s age, health, and behavioral needs. Dogs kept in kennels, unheated rooms, or outdoors must have insulated wooden shelters that protect against weather and are appropriately sized.
The Minister of Agriculture will issue a regulation specifying minimum kennel standards after consulting the Chief Veterinary Officer. These standards will include minimum area requirements based on the dog’s height, the number of dogs kept together, and conditions for nursing females with puppies up to three months old.
Entities keeping puppies under three months of age with their mother will not be required to provide separate kennels. Shepherd dogs used in seasonal cultural grazing are exempt from kennel regulations.
The new rules will come into force one year after publication.
(pu)
Source: PAP