With a dog in the store and cafe: MART and MWH explained the rules for visiting objects with companion animals

In Belarus, explanations have been prepared on the procedure for visiting shopping facilities, catering facilities, household and social services for the population with companion animals. They were jointly developed by MART and MHKH, the press service of the Government reports.

Relations in the field of animal treatment in the country are regulated by the Law of April 1, 2024 No. 361-Z.

Owners of such facilities have the right to create conditions favorable for visitors to stay with animals, in the format of "dog-friendly", as well as independently determine the order of visit. However, this should not contradict the requirements of the legislation in the field of sanitary and epidemiological welfare of the population.

If the facility is simultaneously retailing food and non-food products, the owner may establish a procedure for visiting with companion animals, except for the part of the facility where the food products are sold.

Information that the object is allowed to visit with companion animals can be provided in free form.

According to the Law, visitors with companion animals are obliged to:

- treat animals without violating the rights and legitimate interests of others;

take the necessary safety measures to prevent harm to the life and health of people or animals, as well as property;

- immediately provide cleaning of animal waste products. The exception is the guide dog.

These requirements are recommended to be issued in the form of a memo and placed in a publicly accessible place for visitors. The exception is facilities where retail trade of food products is carried out.