‘Owning two dogs in high, medium-density suburbs is a criminal offence’

A growing dispute has emerged in Gardiner, Goromonzi, where residents have raised concerns over noise allegedly generated by hundreds of dogs kept at a Friends Animal Foundation property. - (File picture)

Blessings Chidakwa

Herald Reporter

Owning two or more dogs on a property that is smaller than 2 000 square metres is a criminal offense, while owning four dogs on larger properties is also prohibited by Harare’s dog by-laws.

Areas measuring less than 2 000 square meters include Warren Park, Westlea, Cranborne, Mabelreign, Arcadia, Mabvuku, and Avondale, while areas measuring 2000 square meters and above include Greystone Park, Shawasha Hills, and Gletwin Park.

Furthermore, owning a dog without a permit is also an offense, as is breeding dogs and allowing them to roam the streets.

According to the Harare Dog and Licensing Control By-Laws, Section 4 (1): “No person shall keep more than two dogs on any property measuring less than 2000 square meters, or more than four dogs on any other property.

“In Section 12, no owner shall allow their dog to roam without restraint beyond the limits of their property, and every dog owner shall ensure that their property is secured and gated to keep the dog(s) within those limits.”

City acting chamber secretary Mr Warren Chiwawa said owning a dog requires a permit.

“Failure to comply with the by-laws incurs a level three fine or imprisonment of up to six months, or both a fine and imprisonment,” he said.

Section 11 (1) also forbids breeding of dogs.