In recent years, Serbia has witnessed a noticeable shift in its attitude towards pets, reflecting broader global trends of increasing empathy and care for animals. This change is not merely a surface-level phenomenon but rather a deeper cultural shift that intertwines with societal values, economic conditions, and legislative frameworks. To understand Serbian concern and attitude towards pets comprehensively, one must delve into historical contexts, current practices, and emerging trends.

Historical Context

Historically, the role of pets in Serbian society was primarily functional rather than emotional. In rural areas, dogs and cats were often kept for their practical benefits—dogs for guarding properties and livestock, and cats for controlling rodent populations. The concept of pets as companions was less prevalent, and animals were generally viewed through the lens of utility. This pragmatic approach can be traced back to agrarian lifestyles where resources were limited and every element of daily life had to serve a purpose.

However, this utilitarian view has been gradually evolving, particularly with urbanization and exposure to Western cultures. As Serbia transitioned from a primarily agrarian society to a more urbanized one, the perception of pets began to shift. Urban residents, less reliant on animals for practical purposes, started to adopt pets for companionship and emotional support.

The Rise of Pet Companionship

Today, pets in Serbia are increasingly regarded as family members. This change is most evident in urban centers like Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Niš, where pet ownership has surged. The emotional bond between humans and their pets is becoming stronger, and pets are seen as companions who offer unconditional love and support.

This shift is supported by the proliferation of pet-related businesses and services. Pet shops, grooming salons, veterinary clinics, and pet-friendly cafes and parks have become commonplace. These businesses not only cater to the needs of pets but also foster a pet-friendly culture. Social media has also played a significant role in this transformation, with countless groups and pages dedicated to pet care, adoption, and community support.

Legislation and Animal Rights

The legislative framework in Serbia regarding animal rights and welfare has seen significant improvements over the years. The Animal Welfare Law, adopted in 2009, was a landmark step in protecting animal rights. It outlines the responsibilities of pet owners, prohibits animal cruelty, and mandates proper care and treatment of animals. This law has been instrumental in raising awareness about animal rights and setting standards for pet care.

Enforcement of these laws, however, remains a challenge. While there are regulations in place, their implementation is often inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. Animal welfare organizations and activists play a crucial role in bridging this gap. They conduct rescue operations, provide shelter and medical care for abandoned and abused animals, and work tirelessly to promote responsible pet ownership.

The Role of Animal Welfare Organizations

Several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and volunteer groups are dedicated to improving the lives of pets in Serbia. Organizations like ORCA (Organization for Respect and Care of Animals), SPANS (Society for the Protection of Animals and Nature), and many local shelters are at the forefront of this movement. They engage in various activities, including rescue operations, adoption drives, educational campaigns, and lobbying for stronger animal protection laws.

These organizations have significantly contributed to changing public attitudes towards pets. Through education and advocacy, they have raised awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering, the need for adoption over buying pets, and the ethical treatment of animals. Their efforts have also highlighted the plight of stray animals, a persistent issue in many Serbian cities.

Stray Animals: A Persistent Challenge

Despite the positive trends in pet ownership and care, the issue of stray animals remains a significant challenge in Serbia. Stray dogs and cats are a common sight in many cities and towns, and their population continues to grow. This situation is often a result of abandonment, lack of spaying and neutering, and inadequate enforcement of animal welfare laws.

Efforts to manage the stray animal population include trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, which are considered humane and effective. These programs involve capturing stray animals, sterilizing them, and then returning them to their original locations. This approach helps control the population growth while allowing the animals to live out their lives without contributing to the stray population.

However, TNR programs require substantial resources and community cooperation. Local governments, animal welfare organizations, and the public must work together to address this issue comprehensively. Public education campaigns about responsible pet ownership and the benefits of spaying and neutering are crucial components of these efforts.

Pet Adoption and Rescue

Adoption of stray and abandoned pets is gaining popularity in Serbia. Animal shelters and rescue organizations actively promote adoption as a preferable alternative to purchasing pets from breeders. This not only provides a loving home for animals in need but also helps reduce the stray population.

Adoption events, both online and offline, have become common, making it easier for potential pet owners to find their perfect companions. Social media platforms are often used to showcase animals available for adoption, share success stories, and educate the public about the benefits of adopting rescue animals.

The Emotional and Psychological Impact of Pets

The increasing acceptance of pets as family members has highlighted their emotional and psychological benefits. Studies have shown that pets can significantly improve mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. They provide companionship, a sense of purpose, and can even encourage physical activity through regular walks and play.

In Serbia, these benefits are becoming more recognized, leading to a greater emphasis on the human-animal bond. Pet therapy programs, involving trained animals visiting hospitals, nursing homes, and schools, are emerging as a way to harness these benefits. These programs not only aid in emotional healing but also help in building a more empathetic and caring society.

Places Where Pets Are/Are Not Allowed

The list of places where pets are explicitly prohibited is relatively small. It is forbidden to bring dogs and cats into:

• Buildings used by state and local government authorities (municipalities, registry offices, police stations, etc.)
  
  
• Facilities and rooms used for public health care (clinics, hospitals, etc.)
  
  
• Places where educational activities and accommodation, residence, and meals for children, pupils, and students are provided (kindergartens, canteens, student and pupil dormitories)
  
  
• Buildings where the production, control, and sale of medicines take place. If you try to bring your pet into a pharmacy, you will be kindly asked to take it outside.
  
  
• Buildings for the production, storage, and sale of foodstuffs (markets, supermarkets, etc.)
  
  
• Religious buildings.

Also, to be able to take dogs and cats to public areas, they need to be regularly vaccinated against rabies. You, as the owner, bear full responsibility for any damage caused by your pet and are obliged to ensure its hygiene and behavior.

In green public areas, pets can be allowed to roam freely without a leash only during certain times: from 10:00 PM to 9:00 AM the next day during the summer, and from 8:00 PM to 10:00 AM the next day during the winter. If the park is near a school, this period lasts until 7:30 AM the next day, except during holidays and non-working days.

However, it is strictly forbidden to walk dogs with or without a leash on children’s playgrounds or areas with flower plantings.

An exception to these restrictions are so-called “dog parks,” which in Belgrade are located at several sites: Tašmajdan Park, Karađorđe’s Park, Čubura Park, Milutin Milanković Park (opposite Karađorđe’s Park), Pančić’s Park, Kopitareva Gradina, the park in Block 22, the park in Block 30, the park near Mostar Loop, and the parks Bele Vode, Gardoš in Zemun, and Gočka Street in Rakovica.

In addition to the restrictions specified by the Decision, owners of all other private and public facilities and areas are allowed to decide whether dogs and cats are permitted in their premises. Owners are required to clearly display notices about the prohibition or permission for pets.

Shopping centers are generally open to pets, with clearly displayed rules for both owners and pets. For example, pets are still not allowed in cinema halls within shopping centers.

If you want to take your pet with you while running errands at the bank or visiting a lawyer, it is recommended to check beforehand, as there is no uniform stance on this at the city level yet.

The biggest step towards a “pet-friendly” Belgrade has been made by owners of hospitality and tourism establishments, as well as other service providers who had already opened their doors and gardens to pets even before the enactment of this regulation. Today, it is rare to find a café or restaurant that does not allow pets at least in the open area, provided all behavior rules are followed.

Regarding summer cooling for dogs, pets are still not allowed at public swimming pools. The same rule applies to Ada, where walking is permitted but not swimming for pets. Additionally, due to the protection of bird habitats on the Great War Island, bringing any animals, especially dogs, to Lido and other parts of this area is prohibited. Dogs are also not allowed to swim in fountains.

Another place where pets are not allowed is the Belgrade Zoo, for the safety of visitors and their pets, as well as the safety of the exotic and wild animals that call the zoo home.

Pets in Public Transportation

In accordance with the “Decision on Public Line Passenger Transport in the City of Belgrade,” pets are allowed in public transportation only if they are in a carrier. This means that pets on a leash or held in arms are not permitted.

There is also a size restriction for dogs, which must be no taller than 40 cm at the withers, while there is no size restriction for cats. Pets can be transported only between 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM.

The carrier must be appropriately sized and sturdy to ensure that the animals can stand or lie down comfortably and have adequate ventilation. It should also be well-secured to prevent escaping, food spillage, and other issues.

It is important to note that drivers are not allowed to refuse the transport of pets if the conditions specified by the Decision are met.

Cultural Celebrations and Social Acceptance

Pets are increasingly becoming a part of cultural celebrations and social activities in Serbia. Pet-friendly events, such as pet parades, adoption fairs, and charity runs, are gaining popularity. These events celebrate the bond between humans and their pets and promote a sense of community among pet owners.

The concern and attitude towards pets in Serbia have undergone significant changes over the years. From a utilitarian view to seeing pets as family members, Serbian society is increasingly recognizing the emotional, psychological, and social benefits of pet ownership. Legislative improvements, the efforts of animal welfare organizations, and a growing culture of adoption are driving this positive trend.