ANIMAL LAW 2026: AN UPDATE ON THE CERTIFICATE OF COMMITMENT AND KNOWLEDGE FOR NEW ADOPTERS!
The year 2026 marks a decisive step in the fight against animal abandonment and abuse. If you are considering welcoming a new companion, the regulations are clear: the Certificate of Commitment and Knowledge is more mandatory than ever.
ServicesPourAnimaux provides an overview of this major legislative measure and explains why choosing a reputable breeder of dogs, cats, exotic pets, or horses is key to a successful adoption.
What is the Certificate of Commitment and Knowledge?
Established to empower future pet owners, this document must be signed at least 7 days before acquiring the animal. It certifies that the adopter has learned about the physiological, behavioral, and financial needs of their future family member. In 2026, this certificate will apply to dogs, cats, horses and NACs (New Companion Animals).
Why use a professional animal breeder in 2026?
Certification is a first step, but expert guidance is essential. Using a dog breeder, cat breeder, horse breeder, or exotic pet breeder listed in our free professional directory guarantees a smooth start, specifically:
_ Dog breeder: They help you choose the breed best suited to your lifestyle (active, urban) and ensure the early socialization of puppies.
_ Cat breeder: Essential for understanding the specific characteristics of each breed, such as the Maine Coon or Bengal, and ensuring complete behavioral weaning.
_ Exotic pet breeder: Rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, chinchillas, or reptiles have very specific needs. The breeder will train you on maintaining their living conditions (habitat, temperature, diet).
_ Horse breeder: Acquiring a horse is a 30-year commitment. The horse breeder advises you on the horse's abilities and the necessary infrastructure.
The professional breeder is often the first signatory of your Certificate of Commitment and Knowledge, providing you with invaluable advice you won't find in a private sale.
A lifelong commitment
Following on from the 2025 animal law reform, the 2026 animal law reform aims to reduce impulsive pet purchases. By consulting professional breeders of dogs, cats, horses, or exotic pets on Services Pour Animaux, you surround yourself with experts who can issue this certificate while guaranteeing you a healthy, identified animal from an ethical environment.
This vision of responsible adoption is also the genesis of our future project: a permanent sanctuary for abandoned cats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Everything you need to know about the certificate and pet adoption in 2026
1. Where can I obtain the Certificate of Commitment and Knowledge?
You can obtain it from a dog, cat, horse or NAC breeder, an animal shelter like the SPA or a professional holding the ACACED (veterinarian, dog trainer, feline behaviorist, equine coach).
On ServicesPourAnimaux, many professionals are authorized to issue it to you.
2. Is there a fee for the certificate?
The law does not set a price, but some professionals may charge for the time spent advising and training related to issuing the official document. The price generally varies between €0 and approximately €50, depending on the expert.
3. What are the risks of not having a certificate during an adoption?
In 2026, the penalties were increased. Both the person giving away or selling the animal and the buyer are subject to Class 4 fines. The absence of this document can also invalidate the sale.
4. Is this certificate valid for all animals?
Yes, it is mandatory for any first purchase or donation of a dog, cat, exotic pet, or horse. If you have already owned an animal of the same species in the last 5 years, you are theoretically not required to sign again, but the certificate is still strongly advised.
5. Why choose a breeder over a pet shop?
Breeders know the animal's genetics and history. In 2026, transparency is a priority; a dog breeder, cat breeder, horse breeder, or exotic pet breeder will offer post-adoption support that commercial establishments cannot guarantee.
Looking for a dog breeder, cat breeder, horse breeder, or exotic pet breeder? Click on the link below:
Looking for a dog or puppy for sale? Click on the link below:
Looking for a cat or kitten for sale? Click on the link below:
Looking for an exotic pet for sale? Click on the link below:
Looking for a horse, mare, or foal for sale? Click the link below:
Looking for a dog trainer or cat behaviorist? Click the link below:
Looking for an equine trainer or equine behaviorist? Click the link below:
Are you a dog breeder, cat breeder, horse breeder, exotic pet breeder, dog trainer, cat behaviorist, or equine trainer? You can post an ad and add your business to
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