Cows
(BRUSSELS) – The EU Commission set out plans Thursday for what it calls the biggest reform of EU animal welfare rules during transport in 20 years, as well as new rules on the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats.
The package includes an overhaul of the current EU rules for animals in transport, which will improve the wellbeing of the 1.6 billion animals transported in and from the EU each year. The new rules reflect the latest scientific evidence and insights as well as technological developments.
Under the new arrangements, travel times will be shortened and, during long journeys, animals will need to be unloaded for periods of rest, feeding and watering; allowances to ensure minimum space for the different animals will be increased; transport in extreme temperatures will be subject to strict conditions; and rules for the exports of live animals from the Union will be tightened.
The new rules on the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats, will establish, for the first time, uniform EU standards for the breeding, housing and handling of dogs and cats in breeding establishments and pet shops as well as shelters.
The traceability of dogs and cats will also be reinforced through mandatory identification and registration in national databases to fight illegal trade and better control animal welfare conditions in the establishments.
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 Single Market.
The Commission has welcomed the initiative and acknowledges that animal welfare remains a strong concern for European citizens.
The two legislative proposals will be submitted to the European Parliament and the Council.
Regulation on the welfare of dogs and cats and their traceability
Regulation on the protection of animals during transport
Animal welfare in transport - guide
Q&A European Citizens’ Initiative “Fur Free Europe”
