President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has signed a law introducing amendments to Kazakhstan’s animal welfare regulations, according to the president’s press service.
The amendments strengthen state oversight and increase owners’ responsibility for their animals. Under the new rules, pet ownership and walking regulations will become stricter. Owners are required to prevent situations in which their animals could harm people or damage property. If violations result in harm or damage, owners will be fully liable for compensation.
Context
On April 8, the Mazhilis, the lower house of parliament, approved the amendments in two readings. Lawmakers estimate that replacing the TNR (trap-neuter-return) system with euthanasia could save the state budget approximately $31.8 million.
The proposed changes, however, sparked public outrage. Animal rights activists strongly opposed the amendments and launched an online petition against the mass euthanasia of stray dogs. Senate Speaker Maulen Ashimbayev acknowledged the criticism from the public and said the Senate would not rush the bill’s consideration.
President Tokayev also commented on the issue at the time, urging people to treat animals humanely and showing zero tolerance for animal cruelty.
