Animals in Europe will have an even better life

The European Commission has proposed a major reform of animal welfare and transport rules. The need was obvious: the last rules adopted were more than 20 years old. They have long failed to take into account the latest technological and scientific advances, as well as changes in people's attitudes towards their pets and other animals in general.

The proposed reform consists of several major blocks. The first concerns farm animals, including animals transported for slaughter, and the second concerns domestic four-legged animals.

Approximately 1.6 billion animals are transported each year in Europe. Obviously, such a huge market needs to be regulated. Digitization, systematization and improved transparency in tracking the movement of pets has become one of the most important points that will also help in the fight against illegal trade.

Apart from this, the list of innovations will also include

• Established cage sizes for different types of animals, brought to common standards based on size and characteristics.
• A ban on cage confinement.
• A ban on the purchase of tails and ears.
• Mandatory access to sunlight.
• Mandatory running standards.
• Systematization of conditions for keeping animals in private homes, shelters and medical facilities.

A complete list of all rules and regulations will be available after the reform is published, if it is adopted. Will it be adopted? A good question, but more likely yes than no. Modern European society is reverent towards four-legged animals. Stricter requirements for breeders and owners will most likely be able to guarantee the comfort of our little brothers and adequate living conditions for pets.