New EU framework on dog and cat welfare reaches the finish line

The European Parliament has finalized a new regulation on the welfare of dogs and cats, as well as their traceability, marking a significant step towards establishing common standards across all EU Member States. The agreement, reached after complex negotiations, establishes minimum welfare requirements for breeding, keeping, and selling dogs and cats, along with a mandatory traceability system based on national databases. The regulation aims to close loopholes exploited by illegal operators and improve authorities' ability to track animals across borders, with a focus on identifying, registering, and linking animals to breeders and sellers.

While the new framework represents a milestone in companion animal welfare at the EU level, there are still some gaps in coverage, including certain animals like cats on farms and working dogs used by authorities. Implementation will also take time, with transition periods of up to fifteen years, during which Member States must maintain strong national standards and address challenges such as overpopulation through effective population management practices like sterilization. The regulation signals a shift towards a more coordinated and accountable European approach to companion animal welfare.