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Pets, wildlife and biodiversity

  • Rules on owning and control your dogs in Ireland. Includes licensing, microchipping and restrictions for certain breeds.

  • All horses, ponies and donkeys must have passports and must be registered and microchipped. Also, in specified local authority control areas, you need a licence to keep a horse.

  • A range of Irish and EU legislation aims to ensure biodiversity by conserving natural habitats and wild fauna and flora.

  • It is illegal to import, breed, rehome or resell an XL Bully dog in Ireland. It is also illegal to own an XL Bully dog unless you have a Certificate of Exemption.

  • An overview of the process of adopting or buying a pet.

  • This page has information about how to take care of your pet.

  • The importation of pets into Ireland is strictly controlled. This page gives an overview of the procedures for bringing your pet to Ireland.
    This document is in: Coming to live in Ireland

  • State fishing licences and fishing permits are needed for some types of angling in Ireland. Find out how and where to apply for a fishing licence and permit.
    This document is in: Sport and leisure

  • Deer in Ireland are a protected species and it is against the law to shoot them without a licence. Find out to apply for a licence and the restrictions that are in place.
    This document is in: Sport and leisure

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