The first EU rules for the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats were adopted with 35 votes to 2 and 9 abstentions.

Who must comply

MEPs propose the new rules would cover those who are responsible for breeding or selling dogs and cats in establishments and shelters; and those placing dogs and cats into foster homes. They would however not apply to private dog and cat owners.

Microchipping of dogs and cats in the EU

The rules would mean that all dogs and cats held by breeders, sellers and shelters, or offered for sale or donation online, must be individually identifiable with a microchip. Microchipped dogs and cats should be registered in interoperable national databases. MEPs say identification numbers of microchips, along with information about the corresponding national database, should be stored in a single index database operated by the Commission.

Dogs and cats from third countries

To close potential loopholes that would let dogs and cats enter the EU as non-commercial pets…