Make It Official: Register Your Grooming Business And Build Trust

Malta has just taken another step forward in animal welfare: More than 25 pet grooming establishments have now been officially registered under the 2024 Standards for Pet Grooming Establishments Regulations.

Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Rights Alicia Bugeja Said announced the milestone, explaining that the legislation and guidelines were designed to ensure pets are groomed in safe, professional environments that prioritise their wellbeing.

“It’s crucial that animal welfare remains a top priority. These regulations give peace of mind to pet owners while strengthening the grooming profession and making sure every animal receives proper care,” Bugeja Said noted.

She also urged any groomers who haven’t yet registered to do so as soon as possible, thanking the Animal Welfare Directorate for the Wellbeing of Animals for their ongoing work. A similar registration process for pet sitters is currently underway.

Chief Veterinary Technical Officer Joe Zammit explained that the regulations set legal standards for all commercial grooming facilities. These include requiring groomers to hold a professional licence, implementing animal health control programmes, and keeping proper records for annual inspections.

“Enforcing these standards is about professionalising the industry and building trust with pet owners,” Zammit said. “So far, more than 25 establishments have been certified as compliant.”