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Everything You Need to Know About the Cholito Law: Responsible Pet Ownership in Chile

What is the Cholito Law?

Law 21.020, known as the Cholito Law, was approved in 2021 and is named after Cholito, a dog that was a victim of animal abuse in the Valparaíso region. Cholito’s story sparked a wave of solidarity across the country and played a key role in the creation of stricter legislation to protect animals.

The Cholito Law was enacted in Chile to promote responsible pet ownership and ensure the well-being of animals, both in homes and in their interactions with society. This law establishes a set of obligations for pet owners, aiming not only to protect animals from mistreatment and abuse but also to prevent any harm they might cause to people or public and private property.

Additionally, the law enforces severe penalties for those who mistreat, abandon, or cause suffering to animals, whether intentionally or due to negligence. These penalties include fines and prison sentences ranging from 3 to 5 years, depending on the severity of the offense. In this way, the Cholito Law strengthens animal protection and seeks to create a more empathetic and conscious society regarding the rights of living beings.

1. Pet Registration: A Key Step in Responsible Ownership

One of the main requirements established by the Cholito Law is the mandatory registration of pets. This measure aims to ensure proper identification of animals and facilitate their traceability in cases of loss, accidents, or abuse.

How to Register Your Pet?

There are two ways to register:

• In-person: Visit your local municipality and present the following documents:

  • A certificate of existence issued by a veterinarian (confirming that your pet is alive and in good health).

  • A simple ownership declaration, available on the official website registratumascota.cl.

• Online: Go to registratumascota.cl and complete the registration process using:

  • A veterinary certificate that verifies your pet’s characteristics and health condition.

  • A simple ownership declaration, downloadable from the same website.

⚠️ Important: The law imposes fines on those who fail to register their pets. The penalty can range from 1 to 30 Monthly Tax Units (UTM), representing a significant financial sanction.

2. Your Pet’s Well-being is Your Responsibility

The Cholito Law not only focuses on pet identification but also on their physical and emotional well-being. To ensure a healthy life for animals, pet owners must provide:

• Adequate space

• Sufficient food and water

• Protection from harsh weather conditions and other dangers

What Does Pet Well-being Involve?

✅ Proper Nutrition: Providing a balanced and species-appropriate diet is crucial for long-term health.

✅ Preventive Health Care: Regular veterinary checkups are essential for disease prevention. Dogs and cats must be vaccinated and dewormed at least once a year. Routine checkups also help detect conditions such as infections, cancer, or organ-related issues early.

✅ Special Care: If your pet has a chronic illness or suffers an accident, they must receive appropriate care. Common conditions like diabetes or kidney disease require ongoing treatment and monitoring.

Are There Financial Aids for Veterinary Costs?

Yes! There are pet health insurance plans that cover various medical care needs. This can be a great option to ensure your pet receives high-quality care without unexpected expenses.