The Chisinau administration said the number of people who are bitten, especially by animals with owners, is rather large. Last week alone, 12 people went to see a doctor after being bitten by dogs and cats in Chisinau. The bites weren’t serious, but the victims had to be vaccinated against rabies, IPN reports.

Stefan Calancea, deputy head of the Chisinau Health Division, Monday said that more than 500 cases of people being bitten by animas were recorded over the last six months. In 70% of the cases, the victims were bitten by dogs that have owners.

“The problem is that the animal owners do not obey elementary rules such as putting a muzzle on the dogs when taking them out for a walk,” said Stefan Calancea.

Under the regulations concerning pet keeping, the owners are obliged to walk the dogs with muzzles and a short belt through parks. Those who do not obey these regulations face fines of three to ten minimum salaries.