Iran has expanded its ban on dog walking to more cities across the country, citing public order and health concerns. The move follows a 2019 police order that barred dog walking in Tehran and mirrors similar restrictions in other cities.
Dog ownership has been frowned upon in Iran since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, with dogs viewed as “unclean” by authorities. However, despite efforts to discourage it, dog ownership is rising among young people, seen as a form of rebellion against the restrictive regime.
The ban, enforced by local prosecutors and police, aims to prevent what officials say is a threat to public health, peace, and comfort. However, critics argue that the police should focus on addressing more pressing concerns like violent crime rather than targeting dog owners.
Iran’s Islamic leaders have long regarded pet ownership as un-Islamic, with many viewing it as “najis” or ritually impure. The ban on advertisements for pets was introduced in 2010, and there have been previous attempts to fine or flog dog-walkers.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn0gngq4wjqo