Pets kept in private households do not need to be licensed unless the pet in question is a wild animal or an imported species. Certain vaccinations are recommended, however, for cats and dogs.

Since 2007, all dogs in Switzerland must carry clearly identifiable and forge-proof chips (transponder) and must be registered with the Animal Identity Service (ANIS). The ID chip contains a unique number as well as a code for Switzerland. This system makes it possible to retrieve data stored in the central databank on the dog owner, dog race, fur colour, age, name and sex. Puppies must be microchipped and registered three months after birth at the latest. ID chips may solely be implanted by veterinarians, who are responsible for registering the data on the chip with the appropriate offices in the canton of residence. Tattooed dogs will be required to also carry an ID chip for travel in the EU only as of 2011.

All cantons and/or communes charge a dog licence fee, which varies from commune to commune. In most cantons, reductions or exemptions are made in certain cases (for guide dogs, dogs trained in rescue operations, etc.).

Breeding and keeping animals for commercial purposes and opening and running an animal home are activities that have to be reported to the cantonal veterinary services. If you want to trade in animals, you must first obtain a licence.

Animal protection societies generally have a section on their websites where people can report lost animals. To facilitate identification, animals should have an electronic chip. Veterinary practices, animal homes and police stations have the necessary equipment to read these electronic chips. For further information, contact your veterinary practice or the Swiss organisation for the protection of animals (STS).

Anyone travelling with cats, dogs or other pets from abroad to Switzerland must meet certain requirements (such as pet passports, chips, vaccinations). Detailed information is available at the FVO. Information about the regulations in the EU or other countries should be requested from the respective representations.

Small animals weighing no more than 10 kg may be buried provided that certain precautions are taken. The grave must be deep enough and far away enough from water points (to protect ground water and water courses / rivers). You can bury your pet on your private property or in an officially designated area. There are several pet cemeteries in Switzerland. Cantons have to provide places where pets can be cremated. For addresses and information on how to proceed, contact your veterinary practice or an animal protection society.