Public opinion reflects new stance
In most countries, a pet is more than just a pet: it's part of the family. So it's only natural to find common pet laws about animal welfare around the world. One might think the responsibilities are straight forward, but laws are designed to protect our pets. However, aside from the usual laws, some countries have some rather surprising and strange pet laws.
From banning dogs from barking after 6 pm to prohibiting mating with pets from the royal household, check out this gallery to discover some other strange pet laws.
Dog owners in Turin are legally required to walk their pets at least three times a day. If they fail, they can be fined €500 (US$650).
If you're unlucky enough to lose your pet bird in Berkley, California, the law says you can't whistle to attract it back before 7 am. Let's hope it won't fly away too far by then!
Owners of pigs in France are forbidden from calling it Napoleon, out of respect to Napoleon Bonaparte. Experts say the odd law exists because naming a pig after the emperor would insult a head of state.
In the UK, it’s illegal for your pet to mate with a pet from the royal household. So don't even think of sneaking your dog into Buckingham Palace—those corgis are off-limits!
In Japan, officials created a curfew for the public display of cats, making it illegal for cats to be seen outside after 8 pm. No late nights for Japanese kitties!
In Oklahoma, dogs are not allowed to congregate in groups of three or more on private property. This is unless they have a signed permit from the mayor.
Also in Oklahoma, people are forbidden by law from pulling ugly faces at dogs. By doing this, one could technically risk fines or even imprisonment. Imagine that!
Once you’ve named an animal, you have to keep it. According to Australian law, you're only allowed to name an animal if you intend to keep it as a pet, not if you plan to eat it.
In Switzerland, people are required to pass written and verbal tests before they're allowed to own a dog. Those are some strict requirements!
In Wyoming, between January and April, it's illegal to photograph rabbits, unless you have an official permit. So get your camera ready for May!
In 2001, a law was put in place in the Hungarian town of Lőrinci that states cats can only be taken outside and on the street if they're on a leash.
If you're locked out of your house in Wallace, Idaho, forget seeking refuge in a dog kennel. It's illegal for a person to sleep in one. You're out of luck there!
Pets in Reggio Emilia won't go hungry, as the law says that if a pet shares a meal, it must be given in equal portions. Or else the owner could be fined!
Dogs in Little Rock, Arkansas, are prohibited from barking after 6 pm. Make sure your four-legged friend gets their barking done by 5:59 pm!
In the rural settlement of Longburn, a cat is forbidden from leaving the house, unless it has three bells around its neck. You'll definitely know when a cat is around!
It's known that guinea pigs are social creatures that need a companion, and in Switzerland this is recognized in law. It's illegal to own just one guinea pig.
In 2005, goldfish bowls were banned from Rome after keeping goldfish as pets was declared cruel. Forget having fish pets in the Italian capital!
In Alaska, it’s illegal to tie a dog to the roof of your car. This seems like a pretty logical law, and let's hope no one would ever consider doing this.
In Germany, dog owners need to pay a dog tax. The purpose of the dog tax is to curb dog ownership. Therefore, the cost of a second or third dog will be higher than the first. Owning a dog is seen as a luxury, therefore it's more expensive in larger cities because the psychological barrier to purchasing a dog is supposed to be high.
It's illegal for a cab in the City of London to transport dogs with rabies. Thinking about it, it's quite a sensible law, even if it isn't well known.
In Reed City, Michigan, animal lovers need to choose between owning cats or birds, as they're not allowed to have both. It's a tough choice!
In 2006, Beijing officials enforced a one dog per household policy. On top of that, they stipulated that dogs had to be under 14 inches (35 cm) tall.
Only male cats and dogs can be neutered in Norway. On the other hand, the female species are spared by law.
In Sweden, dogs attending doggy day care must by law be able to see outside a sunny window. Even dogs deserves to admire a sunny view!
Forget barking for fun or making a funny fish impression in Miami! It's illegal to imitate animals there, as they shouldn't be taunted.
If you live on the Lancashire coastline in England, if not asked by a police officer, it's illegal to incite a dog to bark. This one is very random!
In Georgia, goldfish are not allowed to be given away as a prize to bingo players. Imagine all the horrible accidents prevented from having them in those plastic bags!
Strange pet laws from around the world
In Germany, dog owners must pay dog tax
LIFESTYLE Animals
In most countries, a pet is more than just a pet: it's part of the family. So it's only natural to find common pet laws about animal welfare around the world. One might think the responsibilities are straight forward, but laws are designed to protect our pets. However, aside from the usual laws, some countries have some rather surprising and strange pet laws.
From banning dogs from barking after 6 pm to prohibiting mating with pets from the royal household, check out this gallery to discover some other strange pet laws.