Q: Roberta Metsola (EPP, MT) - Chaining of dogs in the EU (2018-10-04)

Chaining of dogs is still a common practice in a number of EU Member States. However, the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals, clearly states in Article 3(1) that: 'Nobody shall cause a pet animal unnecessary pain, suffering or distress.'

Can the Commission specify whether it will encourage the banning of this practice in all EU Member States through its animal welfare policy?

A: Mr Andriukaitis on behalf of the European Commission (2018-11-23)

The European Convention on the protection of pet animals (CETS No 125) [1] is an initiative managed by the Council of Europe, and the EU is not a party to it.

The conditions of keeping pets in the EU, referred to by the Honourable Member, are not governed by EU rules but fall under the sole competence of the Member States. In the light of the above, the Commission is not considering any initiatives in this area.

[1] https://www.coe.int/en/web/conventions/full-list/-/conventions/rms/090000168007a67d