Stricter rules on OLX: Mandatory microchipping of dogs reduces illegal sales

Stricter rules on OLX: Mandatory microchipping of dogs reduces illegal sales

The OLX.ro platform has introduced an important measure for ads aimed at the sale of dogs: all dogs sold must be microchipped, according to Romanian legislative requirements. This significant change aims to reduce the illegal trade in animals, protect dogs and align with animal welfare legislation.

Impact of the measure: Reduction of illegal sales

Since the implementation of the new rule, the sales volumes of dogs on OLX have decreased, a clear indicator that the measure is making it difficult for illegal traders to operate. Microchipping allows each dog to be identified and its medical history checked against the database RECS (Registry of Dogs with Master).

This requirement discourages sellers who do not comply with the law, reducing the number of dogs traded without legal documents, without mandatory vaccinations or from improper conditions.

Problems encountered in the application of the measure

Despite the initial success, the process of implementing the new rule revealed several difficulties:

1. Microchips that do not appear in RECS
   • Some microchips are not correctly registered in the national RECS database, raising doubts about the dogs' origin and compliance with the law.
2. Incomplete microchips in ads
   • In some cases, sellers do not include the full microchip code in the ad, preventing genuine verification of the animal.
3. Missing rabies vaccination
   • Checks in RECS showed that, although the dogs are microchipped, some have not registered the mandatory rabies vaccination, contrary to legal requirements.
4. Lack of sales contracts
   • Further, many merchants do not offer contracts to certify the transaction and protect the buyer, contrary to legal norms.

Relevant legislation

According to Romanian legislation (OG 155/2001 on the management of stray dogs and HG 1059/2013), the dogs sold must be:

• Microchipped and registered in RECS;
• Vaccinated against rabies (mandatory for dogs over 3 months);
• Accompanied by a health card issued by an authorized veterinarian.

Selling without complying with these conditions may attract administrative and criminal sanctions.

What's next?

OLX works with authorities and animal welfare organizations to tighten checks and prevent listings that do not comply with the law. The implementation of a system whereby the microchip code is automatically validated in RECS before the ad is published is also being discussed.

Message to buyers

Users are advised to check the microchip in RECS and ask for the required documents before buying a dog. Responsible choice helps fight illegal trade and ensures animal welfare.

This initiative is a step forward in protecting animals and holding sellers and buyers accountable. Authorities and online platforms must remain vigilant to close loopholes and ensure compliance with the law.

Adopt, don't buy!