On 7th December 2023 the EU Commission proposed the biggest reform of EU animal welfare rules during transport in 20 years. The Commission is also proposing, for the first time ever, new EU rules on the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats, which are bred, kept and traded, as companion animals, for economic purposes. Finally, the Commission is proposing further steps to address the European Citizens' Initiative (ECI) 'Fur Free Europe', that calls for an EU-ban on fur farming and on the sale of products containing such fur in the EU Market.
Better rules for the transport of animals
The existing EU rules for animals in transport no longer reflect current realities, latest scientific insights and advice, sustainability goals or legitimate concerns of our citizens when it comes to animal welfare. The proposal therefore focusses on key areas, vital to ensure good animal welfare in transport:
- Travel times
- Minimum space
- Transport in extreme temperatures
- Stricter rules for the exports of live animals from the EU
- Use of digital tools to facilitate the enforcement of transport rules
Better welfare for dogs and cats
Around 44% of households in the EU have a pet animal. Trade in dogs and cats has grown considerably in recent years, with an annual value of €1.3 billion. However, animal welfare standards for professional breeding, keeping and selling dogs and cats very much diverge between Member States. There is also extensive evidence of sub-standard practices and abuse.
In addition, the illegal trade in dogs and cats has soared, accelerated by a growing online market which now accounts for 60% of all dog and cat sales in the EU. A new report denounces the extent of the illegal trade in dogs and cats, as well as the current loopholes that allow it to happen.
The new welfare law proposal establishes uniform EU rules for the welfare of dogs and cats that are bred or kept in breeding establishments, in pet shops as well as in shelters:
- Minimum standards for breeding, housing, care and treatment
- Strict traceability requirements, together with automated checks for online sales.
- Training of animal handlers and informing future owners about the importance of responsible ownership.
- Import of dogs and cats will have to meet equivalent welfare standards.
Reply to the European citizens' initiative ‘Fur Free Europe'
The Commission also responded to the initiative “Fur Free Europe'' which calls to take action to prohibit:
- the keeping and killing of animals for the sole or main purpose of fur production and
- the placement of farmed animal fur, and products containing such fur, on the EU market.
Next Steps
The two legislative proposals will be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council. On the European Citizens' Initiative, EFSA will begin its scientific assessment on the basis of the Commission's request and deliver its scientific opinion by March 2025.
More in a Press release from the EU Comission.