Spread the culture of responsible possession It's the most effective strategy for preventing abandonment and straying. Living with a dog or cat enriches family and social life, but requires knowledge, time, financial resources, and daily consistency, both at home and while traveling.
Why responsible ownership is key
The relationship with an animal is not intuitive. Humanizing the dog or considering it an object can generate stress and behavioral problems. Conscious management respects ethological needs, promotes well-being and safety, and reduces the risk of abandonment, especially during holiday periods.
Essential legal obligations in Italy
Identification and registry
- Microchip mandatory and registration in the Regional Canine Registry/National Pet Registry, by the veterinarian.
- Always report loss o finding to the competent authorities (Municipality/Veterinary Local Health Authority/Local Police).
Travel and documents
- EU Passport for dog, cat or ferret and rabies vaccination for expatriation.
- Before traveling, check the rules for transporting your dog on trains, planes, ships, and buses. Always wear a leash and muzzle where required.
Civil cohabitation
- Leash in public areas and muzzle in tow or where required (public places and transport, according to regulations).
- Collection of excrement and compliance with municipal regulations.
- Liability insurance is not mandatory but recommended.
Prevent unwanted litters
La sterilization It's the most effective measure against unplanned litters, which often result in abandonment. Talk to your veterinarian about timing, benefits, and management options (sex separation, heat monitoring). A responsible breeding plan protects health and well-being.
Informed choices before adoption
- Consider your time, budget, lifestyle, and space. A dog is neither a gift nor a pastime.
- Choose a size, age, and temperament that's right for you; learn about the breed's or crossbreed's ethological needs.
- Contact reputable shelters, rescue organizations, or ethical breeders; avoid impulse purchases.
- Predict basic education and socializing with qualified professionals.
Traveling with your dog or cat
Before leaving
- Veterinary visit, anti-parasitic prophylaxis and check-up of papers (microchip, registration, EU passport if foreign).
- Book pet-friendly facilities and find out about dog beaches/areas and local regulations. On VacanzeAnimali.it you'll find hotel, campgrounds, holiday homes that welcome animals.
- Prepare a kit: water, bowl, food, mats/bags, medicines, approved carrier, leash and muzzle.
During the trip
- Plan regular breaks and never leave your pet in the car.
- Respect the carrier's regulations; always wear a leash and muzzle where required on public transport.
- Maintain routines, exercise, and rest areas to reduce stress.
What to do if you find a stray dog
- Keep yourself and your pet safe without risky chases.
- If he has a tag, contact the owner immediately; alternatively, call Local police o Veterinary ASL.
- If possible, take him to the vet to have his microchip scanned.
- Don't entrust it to unknown private individuals: the municipality manages it through a partner kennel.
Abandonment: crimes and penalties
Abandonment is a crime (art. 727 cp) punishable by fine and arrest. If you witness abandonment or mistreatment, collect useful information (photo, place, time, license plate) and contact the 112 or the police. On the highway, notify the emergency number and the concessionaire.
Useful resources
- Ministry of Health – National Registry of Pet Animals: salute.gov.it
- Provincial Veterinary Medical Association and Local Veterinary Health Authorities
- Municipal kennels and recognized associations for responsible adoptions
- VacanzeAnimali.it for pet-friendly facilities and services
Key messageInformation, identification, sterilization, and travel planning are the most concrete tools to put an end to abandonment and straying.
