The report from the conference Responsible Pet Ownership: From Legislation to Action — Fostering Responsible Dog and Cat Ownership in Europe has been published, providing practical recommendations for implementing Europe’s forthcoming Regulation on the Welfare and Traceability of Dogs and Cats.
Held in Zagreb in November 2025, the conference brought together veterinarians, policymakers, enforcement authorities, NGOs, academics and industry representatives from across Europe. The report arrives at a key moment, as EU Member States prepare for the transition period before the new legislation comes into force.
Identification and registration at the core
A central message of the report is that identification and registration (I&R) systems must be treated as essential public infrastructure. Participants called for national databases to be strengthened and adapted to meet new EU requirements, while making greater use of digital tools, interoperable systems and emerging technologies to improve traceability, monitoring and enforcement.
Building capacity and awareness
The report stresses that legislation alone will not improve animal welfare. Effective implementation will require clear guidance for breeders, shelters, veterinarians, online platforms and competent authorities, alongside targeted awareness campaigns on microchipping, registration and responsible pet acquisition.
Training and capacity-building across the entire implementation chain — from veterinarians and inspectors to municipalities and NGOs — were identified as critical to success.
Cooperation for effective enforcement
The report also highlights the need for stronger cooperation between veterinary services, enforcement authorities and judicial bodies to tackle illegal pet trade and ensure consistent application of the new rules.
UEVP President Volker Moser noted, ‘Europe has reached a defining moment for dog and cat welfare. New rules on identification, registration and traceability provide a strong foundation, but their success will depend on practical implementation, clear responsibilities and close cooperation between veterinarians, authorities and pet owners.’
The full report is available here.