The European Parliament has adopted a resolution calling on member countries to have tougher sanctions against the illegal trade in dogs and cats.
From tougher penalties for the illegal trade in cats and dogs up to mandatory EU certified systems for identifying pets. With 607 votes in favor, 3 votes against and 19 abstentions, MEPs adopted a resolution calling for concrete action against the illegal pet trade that causes suffering, spreads disease and generates high revenues for international organized crime .
In short, an action plan to protect the welfare of animals, but also public health. The measures requested by MEPs as we mentioned are: a mandatory EU system for the registration of dogs and cats, an EU definition of large-scale commercial breeding facilities, known as puppies, improved law enforcement and tougher sanctions and, finally, a measure to encourage people to adopt, rather than buy, pets.
It is estimated that around 46 dogs are traded between EU countries each month, most of which are unregistered. A part of commercial breeders is also abusing the EU legislation on non-commercial movements of pet animals (Regulation (EU) No. 576/2013), for trade of an economic nature.
The resolution reads: "the registration of dogs and cats is a fundamental and necessary first step in the fight against the illegal trade in pets, it is essential that they are microchipped and identified".
In a video made for the European Parliament there is the testimony of Thierry, a dog breeder. In France, there are strict rules: puppies cannot legally be sold on the market before they are at least two months old.
"Higher standards ensure that puppies do not get sick", explains in the video. But not everyone in the EU respects these rules. Illegal exchanges using criminal networks exist online and on social media with disastrous consequences for animal welfare and potential risks for human health.
Sources: European Parliament, European Resolution, Multimedia Parliament
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