Pets cannot be sold to individuals under the age of 16 without parental consent. Additionally, surgical procedures intended to alter the appearance of a pet are prohibited. These measures are outlined in the European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals, recently ratified by Parliament, IPN reports.

The document includes provisions aimed at ensuring the welfare and health of pets and promoting informational and educational programs to encourage pet owners to adopt responsible and compassionate attitudes towards their animals.

Other stipulations require pet owners not to abandon their animals and to provide them with all necessary care and appropriate living conditions.

The European Convention for the Protection of Pet Animals was signed in Strasbourg on November 13, 1987. To date, 26 countries have ratified the convention. The Republic of Moldova signed the convention on September 13 of this year.