The ISPCA are delighted to announce a step in the right direction for our four-legged friends. In a groundbreaking move, the EU has introduced legislation to safeguard the welfare of cats and dogs. The proposal addresses issues like traceability, breeding practices, and imports, but challenges remain, especially concerning extreme breeding and online sales.
Improvements will be made towards:
- Traceability: National databases are proposed to enhance traceability, aiding in controlling illicit trade. All cats and dogs must now be identified and registered by a veterinarian or qualified person.
- Breeding Practices: The legislation mandates breeders to gain approval from authorities, with inspections required for approval. Approved establishments will be publicly listed, and caretakers need certification after mandatory training.
- Imports: The regulations extend to even pets coming from other countries so they will be covered in these rules to stop supporting bad practices abroad.
- Online Pet Trade: While the legislation addresses online pet trade, there’s room for improvement to ensure tighter measures for safer transactions.
- Cosmetic Surgeries: Strict prohibition of cosmetic and convenience surgeries, unless medically necessary, is included.
Concerns:
- The legislation falls short on measures like a ban on selling cats and dogs in pet shops, addressing artificial insemination abuse, and controlling extreme breeding.
- Specific bans, such as on extreme featured breeds in the media and exhibitions, could offer better restrictions.
- The report on illegal pet trade emphasizes ongoing collaboration between Member States, improved communication, training, effective enforcement, and harmonization of regulations.
- This legislation is a significant step for cat and dog welfare, but addressing shortcomings is crucial, especially to combat the rampant illegal online pet trade. Ongoing collaboration and additional measures are essential for the effective enforcement of these regulations.
Reineke Hameleers, CEO, Eurogroup for Animals, urges the European Commission to provide a timeline for missing proposals, particularly the Kept Animals and Slaughter Regulations, benefiting billions of farm animals annually.
Read the full proposal here: https://food.ec.europa.eu/animals/animal-welfare/animal-welfare-practice/welfare-dogs-and-cats_en
