The aim is to prevent these characteristics from being passed on to future generations if this poses a high health risk for them and their offspring. What extreme characteristics are specifically meant by this is yet to be determined on the basis of scientific research.
Minimum space for dogs
Painful mutilations – such as cutting off parts of the tail or ears – are also to be banned. The EU-wide law also aims to curb the illegal trade in popular pets and to do more for their welfare. Specifically, the standards for keeping dogs and cats are also to be standardized. For example, there should be a minimum amount of space, regulated access to daylight and basic rules for feeding in facilities such as animal shelters.
Registration requirement for pets
In addition, all animals would have to be microchipped and registered in a database before they are sold or given away. This database would then be accessible throughout Europe. There are currently no plans for the new regulations to apply to animals already owned by private individuals.
According to the authority, more than 72 million dogs and 83 million cats are owned by citizens in the European Union. The annual turnover in the animal trade is estimated at around 1.3 billion euros.
Before the new rules can come into force, the final text of the law must still be negotiated with the European Parliament.
