The region of Piedmont joins us in taking a stand against dogs kept on chains
This is an important step forward, and we are proud to have contributed to its introduction.
New regional law introducing a ban on the tethering of dogs
It was back on the first of February 2022 that a delegation composed of the President of Save the Dogs, Sara Turetta, and lawyer Cristiana Cesarato, who is the Turin head of Animal Law Italia and also represents Green Impact and FONDAZIONE CAVE CANEM, delivered our petition to the President of Piedmont, Alberto Cirio. Backed by over 5,000 signatures, we demanded an end to the keeping of dogs on chains.
Two years later, we are thrilled to hear about the adoption of a new regional law introducing a ban on the tethering of dogs. This is an important step forward, and we are proud to have contributed to its introduction.
The Piedmont Region has in fact established a law on animal welfare that provides for the abolition of the use of chains. This legislation consolidates several proposals into one unified text and received approval through a bipartisan vote in the Regional Council.
Consequently, the use of chains will be eliminated, except in highly specific and exceptional circumstances. Additionally, efforts to combat stray animal populations will be intensified through the creation of a regional database, raising awareness about abandonment and abuse, implementing new protocols to prevent unprovoked attacks, addressing issues related to genetic engineering, and formally acknowledging shelters for previously exploited animals seeking new homes.
This legislative action marks a notable advancement towards a more humane society that prioritizes animal welfare, redressing a deficiency that had previously seen Piedmont lagging behind compared to other regions.
Since the publication of the report on chained dogs (March 2021), three regions have already have taken steps to amend their regulations. Campania has introduced fines for those who violate the ban, while the Lazio Region has shifted from legislation resembling that of Piedmont to an outright ban, with exceptions granted only for certified health reasons determined by a veterinarian. Similarly, Tuscany and the Province of Trento have also made changes to their laws in response to the report’s findings.