Instalment plan for dogs

25.1.2011

Question for written answer E-000724/2011
to the Commission
Rule 117
Cristiana Muscardini (PPE)

In Italy, some breeders have started to sell pedigree animals on the Internet under an instalment plan, a practice involving a financing agreement with payment through modest monthly instalments over a period of up to seven years. In some cases purchasers even have the right to withdraw and a guarantee. Should the purchaser then be insolvent, under Italian legislation the animal may be distrained, seized and taken to kennels or be auctioned; if fortunate, it might be fostered with a private individual. What is more, animals returned under guarantee because they are sick may well be put down, with the exception of the fortunate few who manage to find a foster family.

In fact, living beings are being treated just like household appliances.

Mindful of the fact that the EU does not have harmonised laws on pet welfare, could the Commission say whether or not it knew about this practice?

Could the Commission say whether these practices comply with EU legislation?

Will the Commission bear these facts in mind when preparing the second EU strategy on animal welfare, planned for December 2011?

OJ C 286 E, 30/09/2011