Can you bury your dog in the garden in Malta?

Why the desire for a burial in the garden in the first place?

The bond between humans and dogs is often deep and emotional. After the death of their faithful companion, many people look for a way to not simply "give them away", but to have them close by. Your own garden seems to be the most personal place for this - a place of remembrance, peace and farewell.

In many European countries, burying animals in your own garden is permitted under certain conditions. But what about Malta, which is an EU member state but often has its own regulations?

Legal regulations in Malta

No explicit permission - but no total ban either?

In Malta, the burial of pets in your own garden is not explicitly regulated by law - which initially makes things unclear. In contrast to Germany, where the Animal By-products Disposal Act (TierNebG) sets out precise requirements, Malta lacks a comparable, comprehensive set of regulations specifically for pets.

However, the Animal Welfare Act (Chapter 439 of Maltese legislation) applies in Malta, as in many other countries. This primarily regulates the handling of live animals, but also contains regulations on the disposal of dead animals - albeit in rather general terms.

What does this mean for you specifically?

• There is no general ban on burying your pet on your private property.
• However, there are indirect requirements that you must observe - for example from environmental and hygiene law.

Requirements of the Maltese Environment Agency (ERA)

The Environmental and Resources Authority (ERA) in Malta is responsible for environmental protection and also deals with soil and groundwater protection. Burying an animal can potentially have an impact on groundwater, especially in areas with porous limestone, which is common in Malta.

The ERA therefore recommends:

• Burying animals on private land only if the plot is sufficiently large.
• The grave must be at least 1.2 meters deep to avoid odours and to keep scavengers away.
• The animal must not have had any infectious diseases.
• The site must not be close to a well or water reservoir.

Important: Even if these recommendations are not legally binding, you should follow them to avoid violating environmental laws - which can result in severe penalties.

The role of the local councils

Malta is divided into local councils. These local councils have the final say in many areas when it comes to specific local regulations - such as waste disposal, animal husbandry or small construction projects.

Some councils explicitly oppose the burial of pets in gardens, while others tacitly tolerate it. Still others require prior notification or approval.

Our tip: Before you decide to bury your dog in the garden, talk to your local council. An informal phone call or a short visit to the town hall is often enough to get clarification.

Cultural aspects and social acceptance

The attitude towards dead animals is also a question of culture. In Malta, a strongly Catholic country, animals have traditionally been regarded more as "farm animals" - but this is increasingly changing. In recent years, the love of animals has grown considerably and there is a growing community of dog lovers who see their four-legged friends as members of the family.

Nevertheless, the topic of "burying pets in the garden" is still unfamiliar or even alienating for many Maltese people. Neighbors may feel disturbed - for hygiene reasons, for example, or because they themselves have different ideas about death and mourning. You should also take this into account when making your decision.

What are the advantages of a garden burial?

• Closeness: Your dog stays with you - a comfort for many mourners.
• Individuality: You can design the grave however you like - with a stone, flowers or a small memorial plaque.
• No red tape: If you follow the recommendations, you don't need any official permits (unless your local council requires otherwise).

What's against it?

• Legal gray area: You are operating in a legally undefined area.
• Possible environmental problems: Problems can arise, especially with small plots or poor soil drainage.
• Future use of the plot: What happens to the grave when you sell or renovate the house?
• Emotional burden: For some, it is also difficult to be constantly reminded of the deceased dog.

What alternatives are there in Malta?

If you decide against a burial in the garden or it is simply not possible, there are now a number of animal-friendly alternatives in Malta:

Cremation

Private pet crematoriums now also offer their services in Malta. You can choose between individual and collective cremation and receive your dog's ashes back in an urn if you wish.

Pet cemeteries

Malta does not have a classic animal cemetery in the German style. However, some animal welfare organizations are working on such projects or at least offer memorials on their premises. Find out more from organizations such as MSPCA or AAA Malta.

Veterinary disposal

As a last resort, vets offer "official" disposal via specialized service providers. Your dog's body will be disposed of professionally - but usually anonymously and without repatriation.

Yes, but with responsibility

In Malta, you are allowed to bury your dog in the garden - if you observe certain general conditions. Even if there are no clear laws, you should act responsibly out of respect for the environment and your fellow human beings:

• Check with your local council.
• Choose a suitable location on your property.
• Pay attention to depth, distance from water sources and hygienic safety.

This way, you can give your faithful friend a dignified farewell - close to home.

What about you?

What do you think? Would you bury your dog in the garden - or have you perhaps already had experience of this in Malta or elsewhere? Tell us about it in the comments - we look forward to hearing your thoughts!