Belgian municipalities implement new animal welfare policies

Several Belgian municipalities are advancing animal welfare through new policies and provincial recognition. Geraardsbergen has approved its 2026-2031 animal policy plan, which focuses on four pillars: animal welfare, harmony between humans and animals, local wildlife, and animal-friendly recreation. Key initiatives include the establishment of an animal welfare council involving experts and volunteers, and the expansion of an information point into a dedicated animal service desk. The plan also emphasizes biodiversity and the prevention of nuisance.

In the province of Vlaams-Brabant, Diest has been awarded the gold label for 'Animal-Friendly Municipality,' while Sint-Pieters-Leeuw received the silver label. Diest’s gold-standard approach includes operating an animal food bank, collaborating with shelters, and providing sterilization assistance to vulnerable tenants. Sint-Pieters-Leeuw’s silver-standard policy focuses on cooperation with animal shelters and the police, as well as implementing animal-friendly trapping systems for pest control.