And that’s just the beginning. As of 09/15/2008, Geneva’s list of canines declared as unsafe or vicious has grown to 15. The newest additions are the Bull mastiff, Thai Ridgeback, and French Mastiff, a.k.a. Bordeaux Bulldog.
The population’s outrage was felt in the first ever Geneva citizen ballot, which resulted in a landslide 80 percent in support of stricter laws regarding what kind of control and owner education and regulation should be required.
The inhabitants annoyance was felt in the first ever Geneva citizen election, which resulted in a total victory 80 percent in support of stricter laws on the subject of breed control and owner schooling and regulation.
Owners who owned one of the flagged breeds before legislation was passed may maintain the dog, but only after reporting ownership to the cantonal veterinary office, proving that the dog originated from an approved breeder, completing a dog training course, and licensing the dog. Only one dangerous breed is permitted per household.
Owners who owned one of the identified breeds before legislation was passed may retain the dog, but only after reporting ownership to the cantonal veterinary office, proving that the canine came from an approved breeder, completing a dog training lessons, and licensing the dog. Only one dangerous breed is allowable per household.
Geneva divides the 15 breeds into different categories, with each category holding specific requirements. A complete list of dangerous breeds and regulations can be obtained through Geneva’s cantonal veterinary office.
In addition to provisions that must be made for dangerous breeds, Geneva’s general dog owner population, caretakers of the canton’s 30,000 dogs, is subject to new rules. As previously declared, specific guidelines for the proper keeping of dogs must be followed. But more recently, every dog owner is now required to attend a dog ownership course, regardless of their dog’s breed.
Besides provisions that must be made for dangerous breeds, Geneva’s dog owner population, custodians of the canton’s 30,000 dogs, is subject to new policy. As earlier stated, specific guidelines for the appropriate keeping of dogs must be followed. But in recent times, every dog owner is now required to attend a dog ownership course, despite their dog’s breed.
Geneva isn’t the only Swiss canton that’s tightening the lead when it comes to pet control. Valais, Fribourg, Bern, and Zurich have their own legislation. And, prospects point in the direction of future rulings regarding concern and control of dogs in all of Switzerland, including tougher accountability for owners and national breed bans.
Whether you’re a lifelong Geneva local, sightseer, or expatriate, familiarizing yourself with the policy governing dog ownership within the canton will put a stop to complications. Following those rules will shelter you, your dog, and your record with the commandment.
Don’t fail to comply with Geneva’s freshest, and older, dog ownership regulations by acquiring half truths, or no information. These laws are in place to protect both you and your pet.
