Speaking about the rules of keeping animals, Nadezhda Sevruk noted that, in addition to rights, the law also establishes responsibilities and restrictions. For example, owners are required to vaccinate their pets and carry out other necessary veterinary procedures in accordance with the law. It is also prohibited to keep animals in unsuitable places such as attics or basements.

There are also restrictions on bringing animals to certain places. «Many people interpreted the provisions of the law as a ban on entering shops with animals. However, the law has actually introduced some easing of the rules. After all, bringing animals into food stores has been prohibited for many years, regardless of the pet’s size or how clean it is, due to sanitary requirements. The new law has divided these places into categories and clarified the rules for visiting them. For example, if we are talking about cafes or other establishments designated as pet-friendly, owners may come there with their pets. This is an important step forward, as such establishments demonstrate their willingness to welcome visitors with animals,» the expert said.

However, the restrictions on bathing animals in public places such as city beaches remain in force. «This does not mean that an animal cannot swim or cool off in hot weather; it simply means that you need to do this outside the territory of the public place. Our sanitary services monitor water quality, and this is primarily about protecting public health,» Nadezhda Sevruk stressed.