Act No. 24 amending the Act on Sled Dogs and the Keeping of Dogs and Cats (Amendments concerning mandatory vaccination, marking, and registration of dogs).

This Act amends Act No. 18 on sled dogs and the keeping of dogs and cats by introducing mandatory vaccination, marking, and registration requirements. All dogs, including sled and sheepdogs, must follow a government-approved vaccination program against distemper and parvovirus, be permanently marked and registered, and receive three vaccinations in their first year followed by boosters every three years. Vaccinations and markings can only be carried out by veterinarians or authorized dog vaccinators, with municipalities responsible for ensuring sufficient staffing and reporting. Owners who refuse are subject to compulsory vaccination, marking, or in extreme cases, the dog’s euthanasia at the owner’s expense. The government may extend vaccination programs during outbreaks and will cover the costs for sled and sheepdogs, while owners must pay for other animals.