INTRODUCTION

The Safe Pet Cosmetics Regulations, developed in collaboration with the Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences of the Alma Mater Studiorum of the University of Bologna, aim to promote and enhance corporate conduct that guarantees a comparable level of safety of cosmetic products for animals to what is required for man. The production and marketing of cosmetic products for animals is the subject of a constantly increasing market, both in volumes and in their diversification, in the context of growing attention towards animals, thus requiring specific certifications.

Despite the ever-increasing importance of these types of cosmetics for animals, to date there is no specific certification that regulates these products, contrary to what is evident in the field of drugs and medical devices.

The legal provision, therefore, is aimed at protecting the buyer and can hardly constitute a valid tool for the protection of animal health or be a valid deterrent to the use of harmful or harmful products. Furthermore, the indications of this Directive, being general in nature, are non-specific and not detailed.

Last topic but certainly not least: awareness of use and dignity. In the case of human cosmetic products, the buyer almost always coincides with the user, therefore the choice of the product and its use arise from a precise will and awareness. The use of cosmetics, in addition to fulfilling hygienic purposes, plays an important role for the person within his sociality and communication, as well demonstrated by the development of decorative cosmetics. In the case of animals, the cosmetic product is obviously chosen by the owner, therefore a further and important aspect to take into consideration is that, in addition to a sensitivity and sociality different from those of humans, animals also have a different sensoriality, especially regarding smells. This is an integral part of innate behaviors and relationships both between peers and between different species, including humans.