20 Jan. For the Europe-wide protection of our pets!

Better protection for dogs and cats: In the European Parliament, I am the lead member of the Environment Committee (ENVI) responsible for the opinion on the proposed legislation on the welfare of dogs and cats across the EU (Dogs & Cats Act). The Act addresses a number of key issues, including animal welfare, trade and in particular e-commerce, public health and the fight against illegal trade in animals.

The EU Commission presented the draft legislation at the end of 2023. Two committees in the EU Parliament are now dealing with it - the Agriculture Committee (AGRI), which is responsible for regulating animal husbandry, and the ENVI Committee. The ENVI supplements the AGRI report with important aspects that affect people and the environment. For example, it deals with the seamless monitoring of trade chains, the containment of infectious diseases, the protection of biodiversity and the fight against illegal trade and unscrupulous practices.

As the ENVI rapporteur, I analyze the legislative proposal, formulate amendments, i.e. suggestions for improvements to the Commission's draft, and discuss them with the other political groups in order to bring the various opinions together.

After the votes in the committees and the plenary session, there will be negotiations with the EU Commission and the Council of Ministers.

With the Dogs & Cats Act, we have the chance to significantly improve standards for the protection of dogs and cats in the EU and make a real difference - for the animals and for the people who love them!

Over the next few weeks, I will present the law to you in more detail and explain my demands and priorities. It is important to me to talk to you about progress and challenges - and to be a strong voice for animal welfare in the EU together.