Ostend already took extra measures in December 2024 against owners who abuse or neglect animals. Werbrouck wants to roll out Ostend’s approach throughout Flanders. “We sat around the table with Minister Weyts at the end of 2025. He was sympathetic to the proposal and was happy to provide his support and cooperation. We have now reached an agreement that is legally sound. A proposal for a decree that can be included in the Flemish Codex Animal Welfare this spring. Anyone who abuses animals will soon no longer be allowed to keep animals,” says Werbrouck.
The proposed decree provides that people who neglect and abuse their animals can be imposed a temporary ban on keeping animals for two months by mayors. After that period, it is the Animal Welfare Inspectorate that decides what happens to the seized animal.