In this bill, signed by the sole member of parliament and party leader, Inês Sousa Real, Pessoas-Animais-Natureza explains that the objective is to allow pets to move around and stay on beaches, as long as they comply with existing legal obligations, such as “the need to use a leash in common areas providing access to the beach”, the presence of the animal's owner and the obligation to collect waste.
In view of this change in the law, PAN argues that waste collection points should also be placed in areas providing access to beaches, as well as hydration areas for pets.
PAN points out that, currently, anyone who walks with a pet on a beach where it is not permitted is subject to a fine of up to €2,500 and argues that the current legislation “is not in line with the advances and understandings of society and the way it views pets”.
The party points out a study that shows that, in Portugal, around 56% of Portuguese households have at least one pet and that these “are perceived as contributing to the physical and psychological well-being of their owners”.
“Since they are seen as an integral part of the family, they should also be able to accompany their family in their activities, such as those carried out outdoors, such as going to the beach, as is already the case in several European countries”, argues PAN.
Currently, dogs are allowed to stay in Portugal on six concessioned beaches throughout mainland Portugal, and the party recalls the current legislation in countries such as Spain, Italy, and Greece, where the law is more permissive regarding the presence of animals in bathing areas.