It's here! Regulation (EU) 2026/1818 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the welfare of dogs and cats and their traceability was published on 10 August in the Official Journal of the EU. The political green light was given after the formal adoption by the European Parliament, on 28 April.
FVE produces leaflet for quick reference
Together with Fecava, FVE has created a leaflet, What’s New in the Regulation? to help inform veterinarians, breeders, establishments and owners about the changes introduced by the regulation. These include:
- Identification and registration: All dogs and cats must be identified and registered. Staggering deadlines are proposed.
- Databases: Member States will be required to establish interoperable databases to improve traceability and facilitate the exchange of information across the EU.
- Online selling: New rules will apply to online selling and advertising to ensure better verification, transparency, and traceability in digital marketplaces.
- Welfare standards for breeding establishments: The regulation introduces harmonised welfare requirements for breeding establishments across the EU, including standards related to housing, care, ethical breeding, and health management.
- Requirements for breeders: The new rules include requirements on the approval of breeding establishments, education and training, as well as veterinary visits and oversight.
Practical guidance needed in support of frontline vets
‘Years of veterinary advocacy have helped put companion animal welfare on the European agenda, noted Volker Moser, UEVP president. ‘This regulation is an important step towards better welfare, transparency and traceability – but its success will depend on effective implementation and enforcement.’ Supporting and motivating frontline veterinarians will be key, he said, adding that veterinary organisations play a crucial role in providing practical guidance to turn the new rules into meaningful improvements for animals.
(photo ©Louis-Philippe Poitras/Unsplash)