The aim of the new regulations is to enhance the level of animal protection, improve their identification and registration, and reduce the risks of illegal trade and uncontrolled breeding. The requirements will apply to breeders, traders, and shelters for dogs and cats. The rules establish requirements for the keeping, care, housing, breeding, and trading of dogs and cats. The Ministry of Agriculture emphasizes that special attention is given to the traceability of animals: all dogs and cats in the EU will be required to have a microchip and be registered in compatible databases of member states. The rules also set requirements for the breeding of dogs and cats. The European Commission will be empowered to determine the characteristics under which animals cannot be used for breeding if it may harm their health or welfare. Inbreeding of dogs and cats will also be prohibited. Furthermore, it will be forbidden to tie animals, except in cases where it is necessary for medical reasons, as well as to use spiked and choking collars and other items or methods that cause pain to animals. The legal act must be adopted by the EU Council before it can come into force. According to information published by the European Parliament, about 44% of EU residents have pets, and 74% of them believe that pets should be better protected. The volume of trade in dogs and cats has significantly increased in recent years, amounting to around 1.3 billion euros per year. According to the European Commission, about 60% of owners acquire dogs or cats online. Since there have been no unified standards for the welfare of dogs and cats in EU countries, on December 7, 2023, the European Commission proposed new regulations.
