Abu Dhabi Pet Owners Must Register Pets in New Animal Ownership System

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Abu Dhabi's Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) is introducing the Animal Ownership System, requiring pet owners to register their dogs and cats starting February 3, 2025. This initiative, which gives existing pet owners a one-year grace period for compliance, aims to improve animal welfare, track pet health, and reduce the stray animal population in the emirate.

Benefits of the Animal Ownership System

The new system will establish a centralised database to:

• Track pet ownership records.
• Facilitate the reunion of lost pets with their owners.
• Enforce biosecurity by ensuring only vaccinated and registered pets access public parks, veterinary care, and animal facilities.
• Promote responsible pet ownership by ensuring compliance with regulations.

Registration Process

Owners must visit a veterinary clinic for:

1. A health check-up and vaccination updates.
2. Microchipping, a mandatory component of registration.
3. Issuance of an Animal Ownership Certificate and pet tag with a unique number.

For dog owners, a home sign indicating a dog’s presence will also be provided, as per legal requirements.

International Practices in Pet Registration

Pet registration systems have proven effective in other countries:

• United Kingdom: All dogs are required by law to be microchipped and registered. Fines are imposed on non-compliance.
• Australia: Local councils mandate pet registration, which helps monitor animal populations and supports rehoming efforts.
• United States: Many states require pet licensing, and rabies vaccinations are linked to the registration process.

Such systems have contributed to improved animal welfare, reduced instances of strays, and better enforcement of pet-related regulations globally.

Importance of Pet Registration

The introduction of mandatory pet registration in Abu Dhabi marks a significant step toward ensuring the welfare of animals and public safety. By creating a unified platform, authorities can effectively manage stray populations, enhance disease prevention, and foster a culture of responsible pet ownership.

Pet owners are encouraged to act promptly and ensure compliance to contribute to the success of this initiative and the well-being of their furry companions.