The Mazhilis has approved a bill amending the Law “On Responsible Treatment of Animals”, providing for a shift towards stricter measures for regulating animal populations, including the possibility of euthanasia. The document also changes the approach to vaccination and strengthens the responsibilities of local authorities.
WHAT CHANGES DOES THE BILL PROPOSE
According to the Telegram channel “Politprosvet.kz”, the current norm, under which sterilisation is the primary method of regulating animal numbers, is being revised. The bill removes the focus on a single method and introduces regulation “in a manner established by law”.
The document enshrines the possibility of using euthanasia. It may be applied to animals that are ill, show aggression, or are not claimed. However, the materials do not specify exactly how the criteria for “aggression” and “not being claimed” will be determined.
Minimum holding periods for animals in temporary accommodation facilities are also established:
- 5 days — for stray animals;
- 60 days — for animals that may have an owner.
After these periods expire, euthanasia is permitted if the animal has not been rehomed or returned to its owner.
Furthermore, the bill removes the provision for mandatory state-funded vaccination of stray animals. Responsibility for vaccination is transferred to the future owners of the animals.
WHAT DUTIES WILL BE PLACED ON LOCAL AUTHORITIES (AKIMATS)
The document provides for strengthening the role of local executive bodies. Akimats will be obliged to respond promptly to cases of animal attacks, the formation of packs, and threats to human life and health.
According to the authors of the bill, this measure is linked to the growing number of complaints and incidents involving animals.
WHY THE PROVISIONS HAVE CAUSED CONTROVERSY
Certain provisions of the bill became a subject of discussion even at the preparation stage. In particular, the debate was sparked by the rejection of the priority of sterilisation and the introduction of euthanasia as one of the regulatory tools.
According to animal rights activists, the criteria by which animals can be deemed aggressive or unclaimed remain subjective. The risk is also noted that short holding periods, in conditions of overcrowded shelters, could make rehoming animals more difficult.
Another contentious point was the abandonment of budget-funded vaccination, which, according to participants in the discussion, could affect vaccination coverage.
WHAT ADDITIONAL INITIATIVES ARE BEING DISCUSSED
During the session, deputy Magerram Magerramov proposed considering the introduction of mandatory dog registration and a tax for their owners. According to him, the amount could depend on the breed of the animal.
Vice-Minister of National Economy Bauyrzhan Omarbekov stated that this issue will be considered before the second reading of the bill. A final decision on the initiative had not been made at the time of publication.