How animals are treated in Luxembourg

When it comes to the treatment of animals, the Grand Duchy is an advanced country. In May 2016, Fernand Etgen, the Luxembourg Minister of Agriculture, introduced a new law aimed at ‘ensuring the dignity, protection of life, safety and welfare of animals’. Since then, the legal framework has been modernised.

Protection by law

The Animal Welfare Act adopted in Luxembourg is based on the legal recognition of the dignity of pets, which should be respected by those who care for them. For any violation of the Act, even an insignificant one, veterinary inspectors can issue subpoenas and impose fines, just like in the case of a traffic offence.

In Luxembourg, people may have only those animals that are stated in the so-called ‘positive’ list. If someone owns or wants to adopt an animal that is not on the list, they must get corresponding permission from the Ministry.

Identification and registration

For dogs, both procedures — identification and registration — are obligatory. Dogs must have a microchip, which can be provided by a veterinarian. Registration of cats is not compulsory; however, they must be microchipped.

The procedures are done within the first four months after birth or within a month after the animal is taken from a shelter or brought to the country.

Dogs

You can register your dog in the local commune. For that, you will need a breeding certificate, a rabies vaccination certificate and liability insurance.

Mandatory insurance is required for dogs. This guarantees your civil liability as a dog owner in case of a mishap caused by your pet.

If one wants to adopt a dog whose breed is considered potentially dangerous, he/she should get prior approval. These breeds are Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Mastiffs, American Staffordshire Terriers, Pit Bulls and Boerboels. The Ministry of Agriculture issues documents for keeping or bringing in dogs of such breeds only upon providing a certificate of completion of special training courses run by an approved organisation.

Cats

Similar to dogs, cats must be microchipped. In addition, they must be spayed or neutered. This operation is carried out no earlier than six months after the birth of the animal. If you plan to go on vacation and leave your pet in the cattery, be ready to provide its medical record and the documents proving that the above-mentioned procedures have been carried out.

Vaccination

Pets must also be vaccinated against rabies. Veterinarians vaccinate animals at least once every two years and issue a certificate describing the animal.

Although it is not mandatory, it is recommended to vaccinate:

• Dogs against plague, hepatitis, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza and leptospirosis.
• Cats against CVR, panleukopenia, calicivirus, and rhinotracheitis.

Cats and dogs must have a European pet passport. If you adopt a pet from a charity or shelter, you will get this document with the list of vaccinations your pet has received. You will need the passport when visiting a veterinarian.

Care for the comfort of pets

This implies the ability to buy high-quality feed and accessories, have emergency veterinary care and move freely in transport.

Feed and accessories

Fressnapf company sells animal feed and accessories for pets. You can find its products in local shopping malls. Also, you can try Fraps and visit their store in Colmar Berg or order online for delivery.

Pet supplies are delivered to Luxembourg by Zooplus.de, too.

Boutique J Christnach-Jungblut is a family business based in Beggen that sells everything pets may need, as well as the clothing of such brands as Barbour, Fjäll and Räven.

Veterinarians and emergencies

A list of veterinarians on duty is posted here every day. In case of emergency, you can call 112.

A list of veterinary services and doctors can be found at http://www.yellow.lu/.

Transport

Pets may travel by train free of charge, but large dogs must wear a muzzle. Also, when traveling by international train, you must buy a ticket for your pets.

Dogs may travel by bus but only with full-fare tickets, regardless of their size.

Dog training, walking and games

In Luxembourg City, there are special dog-friendly grassy areas. Dog owners are reminded to clean up after their pets, and in parks, there are free distribution points with dog waste bags.

Dogs must always be kept on a leash in inhabited localities, public parking lots, on sports grounds and playgrounds and on public transport.

• Every month, Luxembourg Meet-up organises short dog walks.
• If you need advice, support, information or just want to share some news about your pet, you can join the group of pet owners in Luxembourg. There you can also get some advice on what to do if you lose your dog or cat.
• Also, on Who is your doggie Luxembourg, you can meet like-minded dog lovers.

Shelters and animal protection organisations

In Luxembourg, there are several shelters where you can apply to adopt a pet. All you will need is a document proving your identity and address. Also, you will likely have to pay for microchipping, sterilisation and vaccinations of the chosen animal.

SOS Animaux asbl, 58 Rue de l’Avenir, Luxembourg

Deierenasyl, 6 Boulevard de Kockelscheuer, Luxembourg

Asile Dudelange Shelter, 45 Rue de la Forêt, Dudelange

SEPA, 121 Rue Bourgrund, Esch-sur-Alzette

SOS Animaux asbl, 58 Rue de l’Avenir, Luxembourg

Deierenasyl, 6 Boulevard de Kockelscheuer, Luxembourg

Asile Dudelange Shelter, 45 Rue de la Forêt, Dudelange

SEPA, 121 Rue Bourgrund, Esch-sur-Alzette

If you are looking for a cat or dog of a specific breed, you can find more information about purebred cats at the Lux-Cat Club or find a breeder in the list of Luxembourg dog breeders.

If you want to bring a pet from abroad, please read the regulations in force in Luxembourg.