Strasbourg, FRANCE – In a major boost for pet welfare across Europe, MEPs have overwhelmingly backed the first-ever EU rules to protect cats and dogs, cracking down on illegal trafficking and setting enforceable standards for breeders.

Underscoring lawmakers' love for furry friends, the proposal was adopted with overwhelming support: 457 votes in favour, 17 against, and 86 abstentions.

With over 40% of Europeans owning a pet, the stakes are high: the illegal trade in cats and dogs is estimated to rake in €1.3 billion a year.