28/04/2026 (Agence Europe) – On Tuesday, 28 April, the European Parliament approved the regulation on the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats (see EUROPE 13784/26 and 13759/18). The report by Veronika Vrecionová (ECR, Czech) was adopted by 558 votes to 35 with 52 abstentions. The regulation, which still has to be approved by the EU Council, establishes harmonised minimum welfare requirements for dogs and cats that are bred, kept, or placed on the market. It aims to combat illegal trade and fraudulent practices, particularly during online and cross-border sales. All dogs and cats will have to be identified and registered, including those owned by private individuals, so as to ensure full traceability. Breeders, vendors, and foster homes will be subject to obligations that are proportional to the size and nature of their activities. The rules cover accommodation, socialisation, health, food, and the prohibition of painful or stressful practices. The regulation: https://aeur.eu/f/lpy (LC)