Iran's capital city has banned the public from walking pet dogs, as part of a long‑standing official campaign to discourage dog‑ownership.
Tehran Police Chief Hossein Rahimi said they have received permission from the Tehran Prosecutor's Office, and will take measures against people walking dogs in public spaces, such as parks.
He told the Young Journalists Club news agency that the ban was due to dogs "creating fear and anxiety" among members of the public.
Dogs are viewed as "unclean" by Iran's Islamic authorities, who also regard dog‑ownership as a symbol of the pro‑Western policy of the ousted monarchy.
[Source: BBC]
