Wales Leaves Rest Of The UK Behind On Dog Welfare

Veterinary associations have strongly welcomed moves to tighten up the rules on dog breeding in Wales with the publication of the proposed Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2011. The draft proposals follow a report by an expert Task and Finish Group, including veterinary representatives, which made recommendations for new legislation to tackle the significant problem of puppy farming. The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) were both represented on the Task and Finish Group and have welcomed the proposals, which include:

• tightening the thresholds where a dog breeding licence is required;
• a staff-to-dog ratio of one person to care for a maximum of 20 adult animals;
• compulsory microchipping of dogs on licensed breeding premises;
• the need for behaviour and socialisation of animals to be taken account of in the licensing requirements to meet the obligations in the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

The draft legislation is now out for consultation until 13 January 2011. Commenting, Harvey Locke, BVA President, said: “The Welsh Assembly Government should be congratulated for driving forward legislative changes to tackle the abhorrent practice of puppy farming. “The Task and Finish Group brought together everyone with an interest in dog health and welfare so the Minister should be confident that these proposals will gain widespread support. “Puppy farming is not only a problem in Wales and it is clear that the rest of the UK is now lagging behind. We will be encouraging England, Scotland and Northern Ireland to follow suit and ensure dog health and welfare is promoted across the country.” Grant Petrie, President of BSAVA, added: “Vets are often faced with the terrible consequences of puppy farms and bad breeders, which can lead to suffering for both the animals and their owners. “We are delighted that this action is being taken by the Welsh Assembly Government. “The compulsory microchipping of dogs and puppies on licensed premises is a particularly welcome move but the veterinary profession will continue to campaign for this to be extended to all dogs.”

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