To comply with the EU's ban on selling pets under 8 weeks, online pet trading platforms must enhance their verification mechanisms. Platforms should implement mandatory seller registration with verified identities and require proof of pet age, such as veterinary certificates or microchip records, before listings are approved. Automated checks, like VeriPet software, can connect to EU pet registries to validate data. Platforms must also monitor ads for compliance, flagging or removing listings with suspicious or incomplete information. Integrating with the EU’s Digital Services Act and ensuring traceability via microchipping will strengthen enforcement. (https://www.four-paws.be/our-stories/eu-blog-news/the-illegal-pet-trade-a-cruel-and-profitable-business)[](https://www.euronews.com/green/2023/12/07/eu-policy-commission-proposes-rules-on-pet-welfare-illegal-puppy-trade)[](https://www.four-paws.org/campaigns-topics/topics/companion-animals/illegal-puppy-trade)