Daily Halacha - Shabbat Laws, 15th of Iyar 5777

Is it permissible to move animals on Shabbat?

Animals are considered muktzeh on Shabbat and it is forbidden to move them. Therefore, if ants are found on a table or chair, one should not chase them away with their hands, but rather blow them away with their mouth [Yalkut Yosef Siman 308].

However, if one wants to take their dog for a walk and holds the leash - this is permitted, and similarly, one who pets animals on Shabbat has authorities to rely on.

Is it permissible to walk in a place where there are ants?

If there is no alternative path, one may be lenient, since it is a pesik reisha (inevitable consequence) for a melacha that is not needed for itself, and similarly, it is permitted to pour water on them [Chazon Ovadia Shabbat 5, page 124].

Courtesy of Daily Halacha - Ach Tov VaChesed