Improving Pet Care: Malta’s New 2024 Regulations Explained
Malta is stepping up its game in pet care with the 2024 regulations for operating pet sitting and boarding accommodations for cats and dogs. These new rules clearly distinguish between pet sitting and boarding, where boarding accommodates five or more animals and sitting is for up to four animals for no more than two weeks.
The regulations mandate registration for pet-sitting accommodations and maintain the licensing for pet boarding, with a six-month application window and a one-year transition period to meet the new standards. A list of all registered or licensed establishments will be published by the Animal Welfare Directorate (AWD).
Key Requirements
Personnel and Qualifications
- Operated by qualified personnel with a clean conduct record per the Animal Welfare Act (CAP 439).
- At least one staff member must be certified in Animal First Aid.
Record Keeping
- Detailed records must be kept for a minimum of two years, including arrival and departure dates, animal and owner details, health and nutrition requirements.
Animal Welfare
- Animals must be vaccinated as per the regulations.
- Constant supervision and inspections every four hours are required.
Accommodation Standards
Health and Safety
- Covered by an animal health program.
- Equipped with CCTV cameras for boarding establishments.
- Facilities for isolating ill or injured animals.
- Suitable emergency precautions in place.
Non-compliance will result in administrative penalties, ensuring these new standards are upheld for the welfare of all pets in Malta.
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