Keep dogs, face lashes, says Iran's new draft bill

According to media reports, a draft bill, signed by 32 members of the country's conservative-dominated parliament, would also authorise heavy fines for offenders. 

Those guilty of dog-related offences could face lashes or fines ranging from 10 million rials to 100 million rials ($370 to $3,700 at official rates).

Iran's morality police, who deploy in public places, have previously stopped dog walkers and either cautioned them or confiscated the animals.

Dogs are regarded as unclean under Islamic custom and they are not common in Iran, although some families do keep them behind closed doors and, especially in more affluent areas, walk them outside.

It has been learnt that the draft law states: "Anyone who walks or plays with animals such as dogs or monkeys in public places will damage Islamic culture, as well as the hygiene and peace of others, especially women and children," the draft law states. Confiscated animals would be sent to zoos, forests or the wilderness, it said.

The law, however, would exempt police, farmers and hunters from the penalties.