Fewer complaints of animal abuse in Brussels in 2023 but increase in seizures: cats are the most confiscated animals

The incredible rescue of a constipated donkey thanks to coke: Joey had not eaten for several months after the death of his mother

In detail, 54 dogs, 61 cats, eight birds, two rodents, a rabbit, an equine and six spiders were seized last year.

Fines of up to €100,000

Different cases justify such a decision: lack of hygiene, neglect, mistreated, underfed, sick animals, etc. Most of the time, these seizures follow complaints lodged by citizens with the animal welfare department of Brussels Environment.

First in France: a cat receives damages for… “animal harm”

Once seized, these animals are generally temporarily entrusted to a shelter while awaiting a destination decision.

Soon “animal welfare work” sentences

Fines in cases of animal abuse can reach 100,000 euros and the judge can even order imprisonment as well as a ban on detention. A new animal welfare code, supported by the competent minister Bernard Clerfayt, however provides for an increase in the amount of fines. These could rise up to 500,000 euros for the most serious offenses.

“At the same time, the Code envisages new, unprecedented tools to sanction perpetrators of offenses such as animal welfare work,” underlines Minister Amarante.