Estonia is set to mandate microchipping and registration of dogs, cats, and ferrets nationwide starting June 2027, as part of a proposed amendment to the Veterinary Act.
The Estonian Ministry of Rural Affairs is preparing an amendment to the Veterinary Act, which aims to expand the microchipping and registration of dogs, cats, and ferrets across the country by June 2027. This legislative change arises to ensure better regulation and tracking of pet ownership, as the current system largely relies on local municipalities to manage pet registration.
Currently, 67 out of 79 municipalities require microchipping for dogs, while only about half extend that requirement to cats. This discrepancy means that approximately 93% of the Estonian population is obligated to microchip their dogs, but only around 79% are mandated to microchip their cats. The new legislation aims to create uniformity in these regulations and improve animal welfare across the country.
Kadri Kabel, an advisor in the Food Safety Department of the Ministry, explains the implications this will have for pet owners, emphasizing the importance of microchipping in facilitating the identification and return of lost pets, as well as enhancing public health measures. With the upcoming changes, pet owners may need to prepare for costs associated with microchipping and registration, which will contribute to a more organized approach to pet ownership in Estonia.
