The first Report concerning dogs on chains
The first Report concerning dogs on chains in Italy and elsewhere in the world is the result of important research work carried out by start-up company Green Impact which – in collaboration with Save the Dogs – has analyzed this practice for the first time from a legal and scientific point of view. While the vast majority of people believe that keeping a dog on a chain should not be allowed, the Report reveals that unfortunately the reality is very different.
Thanks to a series of infographics, it is possible to have an overview of all of the regions of Italy. It transpires that although some areas have indeed approved a total ban on keeping a dog on a chain (Umbria and Campania), certain regions such as Liguria, Sicily and Basilicata have established no regulations at all, while others – namely Lombardy, Emilia Romagna, Veneto, Abruzzo and Apulia – have banned the use of a chain but with some exceptions, which are not always clear and well defined. The Report then goes on to look at Europe, highlighting the positive examples of Austria and Sweden, which just happen to be two countries where Save the Dogs has created partnerships for their own programs of international adoption.
The Report is not limited to the legal aspects, but also deals with scientific considerations, summarizing the opinions of authoritative experts who condemn the keeping of a dog on a chain from an ethical point of view, and are unanimous in agreeing that this constitutes a form of maltreatment which has a severe impact on the dog’s well-being.
This Report is an invaluable source of information for the authorities, police forces and non-profit organizations who want to examine this issue in depth, and we hope it will be the first step towards banning the use of a chain throughout Italy and Europe.