A muzzled dog is seen at the 2021 K-Pet Fair at the KINTEX exhibition center in Goyang, northwest of Seoul, on May 30, 2021. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, May 19 (Korea Bizwire) — The Seoul Metropolitan Government announced on Friday its focus on promoting pet owner compliance in May, when many people start taking their dogs out.
Last year, the Animal Protection Act underwent a complete revision and came into effect on April 27 after a one-year grace period. The revised law aims to strengthen pet owners’ responsibilities and adherence to regulations.
The amendments to the law encompass various obligations.
Pet owners are required to ensure that not only certain breeds of dogs, such as Tosa or pit bull terriers, but also ordinary dogs, remain within designated areas where pets are kept and do not wander off without supervision.
When walking their dogs, owners must keep them on a leash or harness and ensure that the length of the leash does not exceed two meters.
In common areas inside buildings, such as corridors, elevators, offices, and dormitories, extra precautions must be taken, such as holding the dog directly or using a short leash.
When accompanied by a dog that is considered fierce, owners must use leashes and muzzles instead of collars. Additionally, owners are obligated to complete a three-hour training course on responsible dog ownership every year.
Violating these obligations can result in imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of up to 30 million won (US$22,610).
Following a grace period, a new law will be implemented on April 27 next year, introducing the “Aggressive Dog Ownership Permit System.”
People stroll with their pet dogs at a lake park in Seoul on Jan. 4, 2022. (Yonhap)
To obtain an ownership permit from the city, owners must register their dogs, acquire liability insurance, and have their pets spayed or neutered.
Those who previously owned aggressive dogs must also obtain a permit within six months of the effective date.
Raising a fierce dog without a permit can lead to imprisonment for up to one year or a fine of up to 10 million won.
Furthermore, the city announced mandatory registration of dogs and cats. Owners can register their pets at a nearby veterinary clinic or other designated agencies for 10,000 won.
It is essential to report any changes in the owner or guardian’s address or phone number. Failure to register a dog can result in a fine of up to 600,000 won.
The government also encourages dog owners to use identification tags while walking their pets and to pick up their waste.
Starting this month, the city of Seoul and its autonomous districts will actively promote dog owner compliance in city parks, the Han River Park, and popular walking trails.
To combat animal cruelty, the city and autonomous districts will establish a joint public-private inspection team and conduct regular inspections of animal-related businesses.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
