Last Saturday marked the start of the Week of the Pet, a nationwide initiative running until Sunday, May 22. Organized by the Landelijke Informatiecentrum Gezelschapsdieren (LICG), this event emphasizes 'the new pet keeping,' highlighting how expert insights into pet care have transformed since outdated practices became obsolete in 2016. Examples include isolating rabbits in tiny cages, punishment-based training over positive reinforcement, slip chains for corrections, goldfish in bowls, and imbalanced diets for birds and reptiles.
Views on animal care have advanced considerably. Dogs now thrive with reward-focused training methods and targeted breeding to prevent hereditary disorders. While chipping and registration are mandatory for dogs, the LICG—drawing on years of veterinary and welfare expertise—recommends the same for cats to enhance safety and traceability.
International pet travel is on the rise, with more dogs joining holidays and compassionate efforts to rescue strays for relocation to the Netherlands. However, unfamiliar diseases pose risks. The LICG offers authoritative guidance on precautions to protect pets and public health.
To support the week, the LICG released an insightful online magazine exploring key facets of modern pet ownership.
