Europe will finally have legislation to protect dogs and cats
After twenty years of commitment and advocacy by animal protection organizations across Europe – including Save the Dogs – the European Parliament has approved a historic step forward for the protection of dogs and cats.
For the first time, the European Union introduces common rules for all Member States on animal welfare, breeding, and the trade of companion animals.
Among the key measures is the mandatory microchipping and registration in interconnected national databases, a crucial tool to prevent abandonment and combat illegal trafficking.
The new regulation also bans certain harmful practices, such as cosmetic mutilations, inbreeding, and the breeding of animals with extreme traits that compromise their health. It also sets minimum standards for breeders, sellers, and shelters, with stricter controls. Keeping dogs chained and using choke collars will be prohibited.
Important provisions are also introduced for imports from non-EU countries, with stricter requirements to ensure traceability and stop the illegal puppy trade.
The legislation still has room for improvement, but it represents a long-awaited step forward. It must now be approved by the Council of the European Union, the final formal step before ratification.
