Since February 2020, new regulations in Ireland govern the breeding and sale of dogs, prioritizing animal welfare. As per the Animal Health and Welfare (Sale or Supply of Pet Regulations) 2019, anyone selling six or more pets (dogs, cats, rabbits, birds) in a calendar year must register as a Registered Seller of Pets with the Department of Agriculture. This requirement applies regardless of whether you consider yourself a business owner or not.
Once you engage in the sale, supply, or express intention to sell or supply six pets (including dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds) within a year, it becomes a legal obligation to register as a Certified Pet Seller with the Department of Agriculture.
Application Process
Registration Form: Download and fill out the Pet Sales Application for Registration form.
Home Inspection: Your premises must be inspected by a vet to ensure it's suitable for breeding animals. This inspection needs to be repeated annually.
Submission: Send the completed form to the Department of Agriculture.
ID Issuance: Once approved, you'll receive your Registered Sellers ID within 1-4 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Giving away pets for free, selling to family members, or selling other pets all count towards the yearly total of six.
The ID must be included in all advertisements once the six-pet threshold is reached.
A Herd Number from the Department of Agriculture cannot be used as a Registered Sellers ID.
Guidelines and Compliance
Maintain detailed records of all breeding and sales activities for three years.
Adhere to the government's code of practice for sellers and suppliers of pet animals.
Purpose and Welfare Focus
The purpose of registration is to ensure the welfare of dogs in Ireland and discourage unethical breeding practices. The focus is on animal welfare rather than taxation.
For further inquiries or assistance, contact [email protected] or call the Department directly on 01 607 2862.
Displaying the Registered Sellers ID
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) maintains an up-to-date registry of Certified Pet Sellers on www.gov.ie/registered-pet-sellers, and your registration will be listed here. This registry is regularly updated, ensuring accuracy and transparency.
Additionally, once you've added your Registered Sellers ID to your profile, Dogsy.ie will automatically include it in your advertisements. This ensures that you remain compliant with legal advertising requirements for selling dogs.
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