President Karol Nawrocki signed a newly advanced animal protection measure concerning restraints and enclosures, according to an announcement published by the Chancellery of the President on the platform X. The legislation establishes a ban on keeping dogs and cats on tethers, while introducing specific exceptions for transport, exhibitions, and brief, incidental circumstances that do not harm the welfare of the animals.
Details of the New Tethering and Enclosure Rules
Under the signed legislation, the ban on keeping animals on a tether applies to both dogs and cats. However, the rules outline clear exemptions for situations such as veterinary care, transport, or taking an animal to an exhibition. Additionally, owners may briefly tether a pet outside a store or during incidental moments away from home, provided the conditions specified by the owner do not violate the animal’s welfare.
The regulations also address the use of dog kennels in exceptional situations, mandating that such enclosures meet proper standards. According to the text of the law, the exact requirements for maintaining dogs in kennels will be detailed in a forthcoming regulation issued by the minister of agriculture. The new legal provisions are scheduled to enter into force one year after the official publication of the statute.
Did You Know? The newly signed legislation represents a direct legislative follow-up after President Karol Nawrocki vetoed an earlier version of the measure in December of the previous year.
Context of the Presidential Veto and Legislative Process
President Nawrocki explained through the video statement on X that his previous veto in 2025 targeted a measure that was poorly prepared, overregulated, and imposed duties on people that many would not be able to fulfill. He stated at the time that while animal protection is a righteous goal, the resulting laws must remain executable without turning state concern for animal welfare into another financial penalty for citizens.
The current legislative path combined two separate initiatives before reaching the desk of the president. Alongside a parliamentary proposal introduced by a group of deputies representing KO, PSL-TD, Polska 2050, and Lewica, the Sejm Extraordinary Committee on Animal Protection jointly reviewed both drafts. The committee ultimately selected the parliamentary proposal as the leading bill, and the current law received a positive voice from entities such as the agricultural self-government.
Frequently Asked Questions
What animals are covered by the tethering ban?
According to the legislation, the ban on keeping animals on a tether applies to both dogs and cats.
Are there any exceptions to the tethering ban?
Yes, the regulations permit tethering during animal transport, participation in exhibitions, medical procedures, or short-term, incidental moments outside the animal’s permanent home, such as tying a dog outside a shop in a way that safeguards its welfare.
When will the new regulations take effect?
The new rules will officially enter into force one year after the legislation is published.
How will local authorities and pet owners adapt to the one-year implementation window for the new kennel and tethering standards?
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