Tail-wagging: first EU law on cats and dogs becomes reality
With today’s vote in parliament, the first EU law to protect cats and dogs became a reality. Renew Europe Group welcomes this new law which will ensure cats and dogs are bred, kept and placed on the EU market in a controlled way, avoiding abuses, painful practices and risks for their health. The new measures will allow traceability and set minimum welfare standards for breeders, sellers, shelters, and foster homes.
“No more abuses and illegal trade with our beloved companions this vote stops the commercial practices that used to put pets at risk of cruelty. It is a final step of a long awaited regulation which protects our most vulnerable furry friends and their owners. It is a sign of humanity.”
, Renew shadow rapporteur Michal Wiezik said.
With more transparency in the process, the new solutions include: 100% traceability thanks to identification and registration for all cats and dogs, a simplified system of registration to detect more effectively illegal movements of pets from third countries into the Union, and better care for the animals through informed adoption, support for shelters and training of caretakers in professional establishments, which are key features of this regulation that Renew fought for. MEP Wiezik explains what the new measures mean:
“In addition to clearer welfare safeguards, citizens will be able to verify the breeder at sale and they will get clear information on their pet’s origin and health. Not only are we now finally able to prevent illegal breeding and fraudulent trading, but the life will also be easier for all animal lovers – with an ID and registration for all cats and dogs, with easier travel or return of lost pets, with more care, integrity and responsibility and a clear reminder that an animal is not a toy.”
Michal WiezikRenew Europe MEP, Slovakia, Progresívne Slovensko
Until now there was no law, no common framework and as a result individual actions of Member States had limited effect, dogs and cats were traded freely in the EU and illegal trade from third countries was facilitated. Over 60% of pet sales now occur online, often through unreliable sources, the new regulation will better protect buyers by ensuring they can choose their cats and dogs from suppliers that uphold proper health and welfare standards. It gives a clear framework for professional operators who have invested and will continue investing in facilities and care practices that meet the needs of animals. It also allows for gradual adaptation to the new regime. Thanks to the digitalisation of records, professionals who comply with established standards will no longer face unfair competition from illegal, fraudulent, and unsafe activities that endanger animal welfare. We welcome the European Commission’s commitment to work over the next two years towards the full digitalisation of the existing Pet Passport - a measure advocated by Renew Europe to simplify procedures for law abiding pet owners and operators, while reducing the time and complexity of border controls and making it easier to identify unlawful movements.