That’s right. If you live in Mexico City and have a dog or cat, there is a mandatory procedure that you cannot overlook: the Registro Único Digital para Animales de Compañía (RUAC). This registry, known as the “CURP” of pets, allows the authorities to legally recognize the owners of the animals and give access to benefits such as vaccination and sterilization days.
What is RUAC and why is it mandatory?
Since April 2024, the Law for the Protection and Welfare of Animals of the CDMX establishes that all dogs and cats must be registered in the RUAC. This registry not only legally recognizes the owners, but also facilitates the implementation of animal health and welfare programs.
The procedure is completely free and is done online through the platform of the Government of Mexico City.
How to register your pet?
Registering your pet in the RUAC is a simple process that can be done in a few minutes by following these steps:
- Enter the RUAC platform: https://ruac.cdmx.gob.mx/
- Create an account with your name, email and password.
- Provide your pet’s information, such as name, age, gender and how it arrived at your home.
- Specify its physical characteristics, such as breed, coat and eye color.
- Indicate its health status, including vaccinations and if it has any identifier such as chip or tattoo.
- Upload three photographs: one front, one side and one with its owner.
- Once the registration is completed, you will receive a unique RUAC code for each pet.
- In case of changes such as moving, transfer of ownership or death of the animal, it is necessary to update the information on the platform.
What happens if you do not register your pet?
Failure to comply with this procedure could have consequences. According to Article 66 of the Law for the Protection and Welfare of Animals of the CDMX, owners who fail to register their pets could receive a fine of between 2,375.94 and 3,394.20 pesos or even face an arrest of 24 to 36 hours, depending on the seriousness of the offense.
Penalties are calculated based on the Unidad de Medida y Actualizacion (UMA), which in 2024 has a value of 113.14 pesos.
Benefits of RUAC
- In addition to complying with the law and avoiding penalties, registering your pet in the RUAC will allow you to access:
- Free vaccination and sterilization campaigns.
- Medical services at the Iztapalapa Public Veterinary Hospital.
- Deworming and animal welfare programs.
- Greater security in case of loss.
Does it apply to all pets?
Although the law does not specify restrictions by species, the RUAC platform is designed specifically for the registration of dogs and cats. If you have more than one pet, it is necessary to generate an individual RUAC key for each one.
Don’t let this procedure pass you by!
If you have not yet registered your fluffy partner, it is time to do it. In addition to complying with the regulations, you will be able to take advantage of the benefits that the Government of the CDMX offers for the welfare of pets.
