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Be a Responsible Pet Owner: Protect Your Pet, Avoid Fines, and Ensure Their Wellbeing!

Law 4830/2021 requires that all pet owners microchip and register their dogs and cats in the National Companion Animal Registry (EMZS). Additionally, pets must be neutered or, if not, a DNA sample must be submitted to prevent untraceable offspring.

Your Responsibilities as a Pet Owner:

Identification & Registration:
- Microchip your pet and register them in the National Companion Animal Registry (EMZS).
- Failing to do so could cost you 300€.
Spay/Neuter for Health & Responsibility:
- Neuter your pet to prevent unwanted litter and improve their behavior, or alternatively provide a DNA sample.
- Failing to neuter (or provide DNA) by July 1st 2025 exposes you to a1000€ fine.
Provide Proper Nutrition & Care
- Feed your pet age-appropriate food and offer clean water. A poor diet can lead to health issues. Avoid harmful foods like chocolate, grapes, and garlic!
- Regular veterinary care is crucial to prevent diseases and ensure a long, happy life.
Offer a Safe, Comfortable Living Space:
- Pets need secure shelter—no barrels or unsafe structures. Tethering dogs for longer than 2 hours or keeping cats in cages can result in hefty fines of 1000€.
- Ensure dogs get daily walks and dogs and cats get playtime to stay happy and healthy!
Health & Hygiene
- Deworm regularly and keep up with vaccinations, including rabies. Annual vet visits are required by law and protect your pet from serious health risks.
- Keep your pet’s health records updated. Non-compliance could cost you 1000€!

Special Support for Vulnerable Groups:

If you belong to a vulnerable or sensitive group, there’s extra support to help you be a responsible pet owner.

Law 4830/2021 offers free veterinary services (like neutering, microchipping, and vaccinations) for your pet.

Eligible groups include:

People with disabilities
Families with three or more children
Single-parent families
Unemployed individuals
Those receiving minimum guaranteed income

If you don’t want to neuter, you must submit a DNA sample, but be aware, the service is not provided free of charge.

Legal Consequences for Abandonment & Abuse:

Abandoning or abusing an animal is a criminal offense, with fines ranging from 5000€ to 50000€ and possible imprisonment. Always ensure you are fully prepared to care for your pet throughout their life.

Be the responsible, loving owner your pet deserves, and take advantage of the help available to you!

Be part of the solution.

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