Finnish pet owners relieved as EU modifies pet identification regulation

Concerns over the proposed EU regulation for pet identification and registration have largely dissipated for Finnish pet owners. The Finnish viewpoint gained support during discussions among EU member states, leading to modifications of the European Commission’s initial proposals to a more favorable format for Finland.

Tiina Pullola, a specialist from Finland’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, noted that the revised regulation allows member states to decide on how microchipping and registration will be implemented. Previously, the Commission suggested that only veterinarians would be authorized to microchip and register dogs and cats, creating a monopoly that would have increased costs for pet owners, especially in rural areas where access to veterinarians can be limited.

This decision has been welcomed by various stakeholders, including the Finnish Veterinary Association and the Finnish Kennel Club. Kirsi Sainio, chair of the Kennel Club’s breeding committee, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating it aligns with what their organizations have advocated.

As the proposed regulation heads to the newly elected EU Parliament this fall for further examination, Pullola is optimistic about its approval. The regulation may officially take effect next spring, with practical applications beginning a couple of years later.

Additionally, the proposed pet regulation includes plans for a national cat registry in Finland, requiring all sale-eligible cats to be registered, while ensuring that standards are set across Europe to combat puppy farming and illegal dog trafficking, with strong emphasis on traceability of pets sold within the EU. In Finland, there are around 800,000 dogs and over half a million cats.