Must know pet care laws and procedures in Estonia

Text Mark Taylor
Photo Karsten Winegeart / Unsplash

Taking care of pets involves various responsibilities to ensure their health and well-being. The Estonian Animal Protection Society (ELS) highlights several critical procedures that contribute to abiding by the law, preventing health issues and enhancing the quality of life of your pets in the country.

Sterilisation and castration are essential procedures to avoid unwanted kittens or puppies. Pets such as cats and dogs can produce multiple litters annually, each with several offspring. Owners must ensure these animals find responsible homes, as abandonment is both illegal and punishable in Estonia. Sterilisation and castration also help prevent the overpopulation of pets and reduces the risk of neglect and abandonment.

Microchipping and registration are also crucial for pet safety. A microchip provides a permanent, secure way to identify pets, unlike tags or collars, which can be lost or damaged. If a pet goes missing, the microchip helps shelters and veterinary clinics quickly identify and return the animal to its owner. Additionally, microchipping helps authorities manage pet populations and identify illegal breeding operations.

Vaccination and parasite control are vital for maintaining pet health. In Estonia, a rabies vaccination is mandatory for both dogs and cats, but additional vaccines may be required based on the pet’s species, age, and health condition. Regular parasite control is also necessary to protect pets from internal and external parasites, which can cause serious health problems.

The Estonian Animal Protection Society, established in the spring of 2000, is dedicated to improving animal welfare, preventing abuse, and promoting responsible pet ownership. Their efforts include direct animal assistance, public awareness campaigns, education, and participation in animal protection legislation.

By following these procedures, pet owners can ensure their animals lead healthy, happy lives and avoid potential health and safety issues.

To learn more about this and similar topics
Animal Welfare in Estonia Eesti Loomakaitseselts Microchipping Pets Pet Care in Estonia Pet Health Pets in Estonia Responsible Pet Ownership Sterilisation and Castration for Pets