Q: David Martin (S&D, UK) - Cruelty in raising animals for pet trade in the Netherlands (2015-06-03)

A recent investigation by PETA (Germany) has revealed terrible and cruel conditions in the Netherlands where guinea pigs, hamsters, rabbits, birds and other small animals are being bred to supply wholesalers, who then sell them to pet shops in the Czech Republic, Germany and the Netherlands.

Is the Commission aware of this practice and is there anything that can be done to put pressure on the Dutch authorities to take action?

A: Mr Andriukaitis on behalf of the Commission (21.8.2015)

The Commission is not currently aware of cruel conditions concerning the breeding for commercial purposes of pet animals, such as hamsters, rabbits, birds, and other small animals in the Netherlands. The welfare of pets is not governed by EU rules and this matter remains under the sole competence of the Member States.