Article 13 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) establishes a legally binding obligation for the EU and Member States to recognize animals as SENTIENT BEINGS and consider their welfare in agricultural, transport, and research policies. While serving as a horizontal, binding principle, the provision requires balancing animal protection with cultural, religious, and legislative customs, such as in the case of farming and transportation regulations.

Animal sentience is the scientifically recognized capacity of animals to experience positive and negative emotions, such as pain, joy, fear, and pleasure. Extensive research confirms that mammals, birds, fish, and many invertebrates (like octopuses and crustaceans) possess the cognitive and emotional capacity to feel, requiring their welfare to be legally protected.

Bulgaria’s animal protection laws are primarily governed by the 2008 Animal Protection Act, which regulates animal welfare, bans cruel treatment, and mandates proper care, including for pets and livestock. Recent 2025 amendments significantly increased penalties for cruelty, with up to 12 years in prison for severe offenses. Key laws also cover the mandatory neutering of strays, protection of wild species, and a ban on fur farming.

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In Bulgaria a change of ownership should be notified within 7 days ( 37-4).

Pet owners should ensure sterelisation.

Nodbody signed a statement for Arik to comply with the requirements of Article 49-50.