Q: Fredrick Federley (ALDE, SV) - Mass killing of hunting dogs in Spain (2019-05-16)

As I am sure the Commission will be aware, the situation regarding retired hunting dogs in Spain is horrific, as they are basically left to die. This suffering and ill-treatment is unacceptable. Although companion animals are not protected under EC law, the Treaties recognise all animals as sentient beings, and EU legislation should therefore pay the utmost regard to the welfare requirements of animals.

Does the Commission intend to propose legislation on the welfare of companion animals?

When does the Commission intend to present a new animal welfare strategy?

A: Vice-President Katainen on behalf of the European Commission

The welfare of companion animals in the EU, including hunting dogs referred to by the Honourable Member, is not the subject of EU legislation.

Article 13 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union[1] stipulates that: "In formulating and implementing the Union's agriculture, fisheries, transport, internal market, research and technological development and space policies, the Union and the Member States shall, since animals are sentient beings, pay full regard to the welfare requirements of animals…(…)”.

This article does not allow the Union to legislate on animal welfare as such. It is only when animal welfare issues may affect some EU policies that the Commission can propose legislation.

The Commission is launching an evaluation of the EU Strategy for the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2012-2015[2], which was concluded in 2018. Based on its results, the Commission will assess inter alia whether there is a need for future initiatives, with due regard to the principles of proportionality and subsidiarity.

[1] Consolidated version of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (OJ C 326, 26.10.2012, p. 47). 

[2] COM(2012)6 final.