Prague’s Crackdown on Animal Use in Begging and Busking

Prague City is preparing amendments to two ordinances that would ban the use of animals for begging or street performances.

The city council has published the draft amendments on its website and sent them to the city districts for comments, which will last until July 3.

The proposed changes include a provision in the ordinance restricting begging, stating that “begging carried out in the presence of an animal is forbidden in the entire territory of the capital.”

Similarly, the ordinance on street performances, or busking, will prohibit public performances “with the active or passive participation of an animal.”

The aim of both amendments is to protect public safety. During street performances, performers may not be able to adequately control their animals, leading to unpredictable behavior that could endanger the audience.

In the case of begging, animals may pose a risk by potentially attacking passersby.

The document also notes that prohibiting the presence of animals in street performances might have a positive effect on animal welfare.

The amendments are currently in a comment period. After this period ends, the city council will review the feedback and vote on the amendments.

Prague already has an ordinance that penalizes those offering photos with wild animals on the streets for tourists. City police handle these cases with fines, and authorities can initiate proceedings to seize the animals.

Offenders may also face penalties under state animal protection or cruelty laws. However, this does not apply to dogs that are not actively forced into activities or contact with people, nor do they fall into the category of wild animals, which are subject to stricter regulations.

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