- Crete Animal Police conducted 841 animal welfare checks in the first nine months of 2026.
- Officers recorded 338 violations and arrested 50 people.
- 75 violations involved dogs that were not microchipped or registered on time.
- In September alone, officers conducted 840 checks, issued 23 violations and imposed €17,400 in administrative fines.
Crete’s police authorities are stepping up checks on the treatment and welfare of companion animals, and the numbers suggest there is still plenty of work to do.
In September, police teams across the island carried out 840 checks and identified 23 violations. Four people were arrested, and administrative fines totaling €17,400 were imposed.
Six of the September violations involved dogs that were not properly marked and registered within the required timeframe.
The broader figures for the first nine months of 2026 show 841 checks, 338 violations and 50 arrests across Crete.
Of those violations, 75 involved the failure to microchip and register dogs on time.
What Are Owners Required to Do?
Under Greece’s animal protection legislation, companion animal owners have several legal obligations.
These include:
- Having the animal microchipped and registered in the National Companion Animal Registry.
- Arranging for the animal to be spayed/neutered or submitting DNA material, where required by law.
- Keeping dogs on a leash in public spaces.
- Providing appropriate care and veterinary attention.
- Never abandoning an animal.
Failure to comply can result in administrative penalties.
More Checks Are Coming
The General Regional Police Directorate of Crete says similar operations will continue, with checks expanding to places where large numbers of pet owners gather.
The stated aim is not simply enforcement but also to inform the public, ensure compliance with the law, and protect animal welfare.
