A growing chorus of veterinary professionals in Germany is voicing sharp criticism regarding the often-inadequate standards of animal welfare prevalent in private households, advocating for a mandatory competency assessment for prospective and current pet owners. Dr. Christina Bertram, Vice President of the Hamburg Veterinary Chamber, articulated the core of the argument in an interview with “Der Spiegel”, highlighting a concerning disconnect between the significant financial investment many Germans make in their pets and the actual fulfillment of their animals’ needs.
The escalating issue, according to Bertram and her colleagues, manifests in a variety of ways. Overfeeding and subsequent obesity-a condition leading to joint problems and diabetes-are widespread. Similarly, dental diseases are experiencing a marked increase, indicative of insufficient preventative care and improper dietary practices. This critique extends beyond dogs and cats; the concern encompasses small animals like guinea pigs and rabbits, often subject to inadequate living conditions and a lack of understanding regarding their specific behavioral and environmental needs.
While a full-fledged “pet license” – a politically challenging proposition – remains unlikely, veterinary professionals propose integrating competency requirements into existing frameworks, such as the existing dog tax system. A tiered approach, potentially including accredited courses delivered by veterinarians or through online certification programs, is being explored. The focus is on ensuring owners possess a basic understanding of animal husbandry, nutrition and enrichment.
Bertram specifically addressed the tendency for owners to prioritize aesthetic purchases – “hats, coats, accessories” – over essential care, labeling them as performative displays that detract from genuine animal wellbeing. She argued that resources would be better allocated towards activities like regular exercise and behavioral training.
Facing anticipated concerns about increased bureaucratic burden and costs, Bertram countered that proactively educating owners could ultimately lead to cost savings. Preventing disease through proper knowledge of nutrition and exercise would ultimately reduce veterinary bills. The veterinarians argue that investing in a more informed pet-owning community is ultimately in the best interest of both animals and their human companions, although acknowledging the requirement for increased effort in its implementation. The debate underscores a deeper societal question regarding the responsibilities of pet ownership and the ethical obligation to prioritize animal welfare.