Bite Back: Tough new law targets dangerous animal ownership

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

A new proposal to regulate the ownership of dangerous animals, including giraffes, sea mammals such as dolphins, and pit bulls, has been introduced by a group of MPs, aiming to impose stringent measures and penalties for those who fail to comply.

Dangerous Animals

The proposal, spearheaded by MPs Ahmed Al Salloom, Deputy Speaker Ahmed Qarata, Jalal Kadhem, Maryam Al Saiegh, and Khalid Buanaq, seeks to tackle unregulated ownership of potentially hazardous animals and ensure greater oversight.

Under the draft legislation, the ownership, trade, and breeding of animals considered dangerous—ranging from predatory species and hybrids to those that become aggressive in certain environments—would be heavily controlled. These animals include primates, sea mammals, various carnivorous species such as wolves, wild cats, and bears, as well as all spiders and scorpions. Certain dog breeds, like pit bulls and Dobermans, are also classified as dangerous.

Registration

For pet owners, the proposal mandates the use of electronic chips for tracking animals and aims to address the growing issue of stray dogs in Bahrain. Owners will also be required to maintain detailed records of their pets, including vaccinations, and provide secure enclosures and proper veterinary care.

The legislation allows for the possession, trade, or breeding of dangerous animals only by licensed individuals or facilities, such as zoos and research centres, which will face even stricter regulations. Domestic animals like hamsters and captive-bred geckos will be permitted under specific conditions.

Licensing for dog owners

The proposed law also includes mandatory licensing for all dog owners, with an emphasis on dangerous breeds. Dog owners must document vaccinations and attach electronic identification chips. Dangerous breeds will face restrictions, including bans on breeding and trading, and all dogs must be leashed in public spaces.

Severe penalties

Penalties for violations are severe. Individuals found using dangerous animals to intimidate or harm others could face life imprisonment, while fines for serious offenses—such as causing injury or death—range from 10,000 to 70,000 Bahraini dinars. Lesser violations, such as unlicensed trading, could result in fines up to 50,000 dinars or imprisonment for up to a year.

Seizure of animals

Under the new proposal, all dangerous animals must be registered with the competent authority within 30 days of implementation. Animals that remain unregistered will be confiscated, and owners will be required to pay associated costs. If fees are not paid within 10 days, the animals will be permanently seized.

Stray dog crisis

The explanatory note accompanying the proposal highlights the dangers posed by irresponsible breeding and ownership, citing the issue of young people breeding dogs for leisure or profit, which exacerbates the stray dog problem. The law aims to ensure better protection for both humans and wildlife.

Transition A six-month transition period will allow current owners of dangerous animals to comply with the new regulations, and amendments to the list of regulated species will be made by ministerial decision.