Leaving a dog or cat tethered outdoors day after day will soon be illegal in Poland.
President Karol Nawrocki has signed a new law that will improve protections for dogs and cats, including sparing the animals from languishing on chains. The legislation goes into effect July 2027.
The law only allows short-term restraint in limited situations, including transport, veterinary or grooming care, and immediate safety emergencies.
Dogs kept outdoors must generally be able to move freely on fenced land. When a kennel is allowed, dogs must have enough room for natural movement and daily exercise suited to their age, health, and behavioral needs. Kennels must also provide ventilation and light, and dogs housed outdoors or in an unheated room must have an insulated shelter.
Long-term tethering can expose dogs to entanglement and injury while limiting exercise and social contact, according to veterinary researchers. Isolation and restriction may also contribute to boredom, frustration, excessive barking, repetitive pacing or spinning, and other signs of distress.
A permanent tether can shrink an animal’s world to the length of a chain. That is why Lady Freethinker welcomes Poland’s decision and is grateful to see animal welfare receive greater consideration. Dogs and cats need room to move, explore, and connect.
No dog should spend their life on a chain. Sign Lady Freethinker’s pledge to keep dogs chain-free.
