A ban on the sale of dogs and cats in pet shops is imminent, which Cypriot legislation (K.D.P. 95/2021) currently permits, according to Ecologists’ MP Charalambos Theopemptou, who notes that, based on European Commission data from 2023, the estimated value of sales in the EU amounted to €1.3 billion annually.
The changes are being prepared as part of a pan-European framework for the welfare and traceability of dogs and cats.
As Theopemptou explains, the proposal is a regulation, so when it is implemented, it will apply as is throughout the EU.
It establishes minimum standards for breeding facilities, pet shops and shelters, for which regulations already exist in Cyprus but are not enforced.
Mandatory microchipping and national registries to be introduced
Theopemptou states that the proposed regulation establishes mandatory microchip marking for dogs and cats and compulsory registration in “national registries” that will communicate with each other at EU level.
EU pet sales market valued at €1.3 billion annually
The changes being discussed in the EU are:
Firstly, the establishment of minimum welfare standards for facilities: spaces, lighting, ventilation, access to water and food, socialisation, breeding rules and restrictions on painful practices.
Facilities must be inspected regularly, with annual veterinary visits and record keeping.
Secondly, identification and registries: every dog and cat must carry a microchip and be registered in a national database before being placed on the market.
The databases will become interoperable throughout the EU to easily trace the origin and transfers from all EU countries.
Online advertisements to require verification system
Thirdly, online advertisements: a free European verification system for identification and registration will be established so that interested parties can check that the animal is legally declared before buying or adopting. Details will be determined by executive acts.
Fourthly, imports from third countries: rules are being strengthened so that only animals from equivalent welfare conditions and carrying microchips can enter the EU market.
