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Animal and Law - Q&A's

Animal and Law - The Susy Utzinger Animal Welfare Foundation (SUST) answers questions from animal owners, animal lovers and interested parties in an easy-to-understand manner.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us at: info@susyutzinger.ch

Dogs - Q&A's

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Walks - how often and how long do I need to walk my dog?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. As a dog owner, it is important to find the right balance for each dog between physical and mental exercise and the necessary rest.

As a dog owner, one should primarily take into consideration the breed-typical and individual characteristics of the dog, its age, as well as the dog's physiology and health. Dogs should also not be unnecessarily overworked and they must be allowed rest now and then. For dogs with musculoskeletal problems or other medical ailments, the owner should consult with the veterinarian and find out what is the best option for their dog. Dogs should also be kept busy not only physically but also mentally, otherwise they will be underchallenged. Talking to a dog trainer is very helpful in this regard to get tips on keeping the dog busy; e.g. head work at home, mind games for the dog etc. The wide range of literature also helps to find a suitable occupation.

What does the law prescribe?

The Animal Protection Ordinance (TschV) lists a number of special provisions for dogs in Art. 69-79. It is prescribed that dogs must have sufficient daily contact with people and, if possible, with other dogs.

In Art. 71 TSchV, under the term exercise, it is legally defined what the legal requirements are for the owner regarding the exercise of the dogs.
According to Abs. 1, dogs must be exercised daily outdoors and according to their needs. As far as possible they should be able to move unleashed.
Abs. 2 states that if dogs cannot be walked, they must have daily exercise. Staying in a kennel or on a chain does not count as exercise.
According to Abs. 3, tethered dogs must be able to move freely for at least five hours during the day. The rest of the time they must be able to move in an area of at least 20 m2 on a chain. They must not be tethered with a pull collar.

Cats - Q&A's

My cat was injured by a dog, who pays the costs?
Am I allowed to feed the neighbor's cat?
In unserem Quartier hat es heimatlose Katzen, was kann ich tun?
The neighbor's cat is locked out during the whole day and cannot enter the house while its owners are at work. There is no cat door and no shelter for the animal. is this animal-friendly?

Other Animals - Q&A's

A donkey living with horses – is that enough?
Am I allowed to keep a single rabbit?
Reptiles: Do they need holding permits & expert opinions?
Are rabbits and hares the same?
Birds: Do they need owner inspections & holding permits?
I found an injured fox, can I take it to a clinic?
Am I allowed to throw fish into the toilet?
My cleaner released my budgies by mistake, what can I do?

Q&A's in general

My vet made an incorrect diagnosis, the animal is now dead - can I prosecute him?
What happens if an illness is discovered shortly after the animal is taken over, which the seller/animal shelter did not inform me about?
What must a transfer agreement contain?
What action can be taken in the event of a poor husbandry situation?
How many pets may I keep privately?
For which species do I need a permit?
At what point do I need an animal caretaker certificate?
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