Cat and dog welfare in transport

20.6.2023

Question for written answer  E-001974/2023
to the Commission
Rule 138
Francisco Guerreiro (Verts/ALE)

Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations[1] contains very few provisions to protect the welfare of cats and dogs transported for commercial purposes. Given that cats and dogs are often transported long distances across the EU for sale or rehoming, minimum requirements for the environment inside the vehicle, as well as a fitness check prior to the journey, are needed to ensure that animals do not experience excessive discomfort, stress or suffering during commercial journeys.

• 1)In the revision of Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005, does the Commission intend to introduce dog- and cat-specific requirements for the environment in which they are transported commercially, including species-specific temperature and humidity limits and container space requirements?
• 2)Has the Commission assessed the feasibility of species-specific pre-departure welfare checks, for example to ensure dogs and cats are physically and behaviourally fit to be transported and free from welfare and health issues such as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome?

Submitted:20.6.2023

• [1] OJ L 3, 5.1.2005, p. 1.