In the Biscayan municipality of Ortuella, coexistence between residents and pets has taken a firm step towards stricter regulations. Following the implementation of the New Animal Ownership OrdinanceThe city council has begun to take action to ensure that the streets remain clean and safe for everyone.
It's not just about issuing fines for the sake of it, but about encouraging each owner to take proper care of their four-legged companion. The goal of the governing team is that individual responsibility primes Regarding the punishment, although the data shows that there is still a long way to go before everyone complies to the letter.
Summary of the first fines in the municipality
Between February and June, the trickle of cases has been constant, totaling eleven administrative sanctions processed. This initial assessment has resulted in a collection figure of around 1.430 euros, distributed among various breaches ranging from minor oversights to more careless attitudes.
What is most frequently repeated in municipal reports are cases of dogs running loose in areas not designated for it. It seems some owners are still struggling to accept that leash use is mandatory in public, a measure intended to prevent unnecessary incidents with other pedestrians or vehicles.
Key obligations for owners
The regulations are quite clear regarding the technical requirements for owning a dog in Ortuella. It is essential that the animals are identified by their microchip corresponding and registered in the official database of the Basque Country, known as REGIA, before the puppy reaches six months of age.
When going out in public, not just any type of restraint is acceptable, as the ordinance specifies that the The strap must be suitable. The size of the muzzle depends on the animal and it must not exceed two meters in length. Furthermore, in the case of breeds classified as potentially dangerous, the use of a muzzle remains an essential requirement under current legislation.
Cleanliness is another fundamental pillar of these regulations, requiring the immediate removal of excrement in any public or private space for common use. But it doesn't stop there, as it is also required that urine be cleaned with water or biodegradable products that do not damage street furniture or building facades.
Spaces set up for play and exercise
To allow animals to burn energy without risk of penalty, the City Council reminds residents that there are seven recreational areas These areas are located throughout the town, providing dogs with a safe and enjoyable time off under the supervision of their owners, ensuring that the rest of the parks remain pristine.
Mayor Saulo Nebreda has insisted that these measures are not aimed at raising funds, but guarantee mutual respect among all those who share the urban space. Surveillance will continue to ensure these areas are used properly and that the rest of the streets remain a pleasant place to walk without incident.
Proper management of pets in Ortuella requires a balance between hygiene obligations and public safety. With the use of dog recreation areas And by complying with the rules of cleanliness and securing, it is expected that coexistence will improve significantly, thus preventing owners from having to face new penalty proceedings for oversights that are easily avoidable with a little civic responsibility.