Illegal trade in companion animals
On 26 April, the ENVI Committee will consider the above draft motion for resolution. Companion animals trafficking has negative implications on public health, animal welfare and consumer protection. It has become a major source of income for organised international crime affecting the smooth functioning of the EU internal market through lost taxes and by creating unfair competition, particularly with the increase of pets' online sale, which is poorly regulated both nationally and under EU law.
The draft motion for a resolution addresses a number of issues related to the illegal trafficking of companion animals, and calls for compatible systems for the means and methods of identification and registration of cats and dogs in databases in the Member States, an EU Action Plan to address the illegal trade in companion animals, improved law enforcement and tougher sanctions, and better cooperation, communication and training for customs and veterinary authorities.