Dover, Delaware – A national animal rights organization is asking Delaware lawmakers to consider a statewide rule that would require dog owners to take their pets on at least three walks a day, with one of those walks lasting a full hour. The request was outlined in a detailed letter shared publicly by PETA, which addressed the proposal to Senate Majority Leader Bryan Townsend and other legislative leaders.
According to reports, PETA presented the idea ahead of Delaware Day and framed the measure as a way to promote better health and welfare for dogs. The organization argued that regular walks provide needed bathroom breaks and help prevent health problems tied to inactivity.
PETA also stated that consistent outdoor time offers mental stimulation that can reduce anxiety, boredom, and other behavioral issues in dogs. The group noted that healthy adult dogs typically need multiple opportunities throughout the day to relieve themselves, and that holding urine for long periods can lead to infections or more serious complications. The letter also pointed to examples in other countries, including a city policy in Italy where dog owners can face fines for failing to walk their pets several times per day. PETA tied the request to earlier state actions involving animal welfare, including Delaware’s recognition of the rescue dog as the official state dog and the creation of an animal abuse offender list. The organization urged lawmakers to build on those steps by taking up the proposed walking requirement during the upcoming legislative session.
