03/04/24 (Agence Europe) – The Belgian Presidency of the EU Council hopes that it can bring the Member States to a common position on the proposal of 7 December 2023 concerning the welfare of dogs and cats, particularly during transport. Work in the EU Council is progressing well (see EUROPE 13309/7). The delegations examined the proposal article by article and the Belgian Presidency presented compromise texts on different parts of the text, based on suggestions made by the delegations. The proposal aims to establish uniform rules at EU level to enhance the welfare of dogs and cats bred or kept in breeding establishments, pet shops and shelters. For the first time, minimum standards will apply to the housing, care and handling of these animals throughout the EU. Link to the initial proposal: https://aeur.eu/f/bl8 (LC)