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New Welsh dog breeding regulations come into force
The requirements will include the introduction of a minimum staff ratio of one attendant for every 20 adult dogs.
Regulations set to improve dog welfare in Wales

Dog breeders in Wales are reminded that new breeding regulations come into force today.

The Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) regulations 2014 are part of a package of measures aimed at improving dog welfare in Wales. The requirements will include the introduction of a minimum staff ratio of one attendant for every 20 adult dogs.

Rebecca Evans, Welsh deputy minister for farming and food, said: "Last Summer I made a commitment to improve the standards of animal health and welfare in Wales for both farmed animals and pets when I launched the Animal Health and Welfare Framework. Since then we have been working on a number of measures with partners to raise the standards of dog welfare in Wales.

“Tomorrow [30 April] , new dog breeding regulations come into force aimed at stamping out any irresponsible breeding practices in Wales. Local Authorities and the WLGA will play a crucial role in ensuring that these regulations are implemented by breeders.

“I made a commitment that my officials would hold a training event for local authority enforcement officers and this was held last month.  I am also aware that local authorities held a separate training/best practice event last week.”

The new law will apply to breeders who keep more than three breeding bitches.  Among other requirements, breeders must create socialisation pals for puppies, as well as enhancement and enrichment programmes for all dogs under their care.

Councillor Neil Moore, WLGA spokesperson for regulatory services said: "Local Authorities across Wales have come together to discuss how to implement the new regulations fairly and consistently. We share the Ministers view that welfare standards for animals are extremely important, and Councils' roles are central to achieving this.

“The regulations will provide an opportunity for raising standards in the industry, where on occasion, improvement may be necessary. Licensing officers will be able to discuss the requirements of the regulations with any breeder who wants advice about the changes, and we would encourage them to do that."

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Free bloat webinar planned for dog owners

News Story 1
 The Kennel Club is inviting dog owners to attend a free webinar on gastric dilation-volvulus syndrome, also known as bloat.

Part of its health webinar series, the session will take place from 7pm to 8pm on 12 November. It will explore what scientific research has revealed about causes, symptoms, breed susceptibilities, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options, as well as looking at what future research could uncover.

The talk will be hosted by Mark Dunning, professor of small animal internal medicine at the University of Nottingham, and will include a 30-minute Q&A session.

Places can be booked here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
FIVP to represent independent practices at London Vet Show

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) will be at stand (S05) at this year's London Vet Show.

The not-for-profit organisation will be explaining how its expertise and resources can help independent practices to thrive in a competitive industry. It will also share how it has been representing independent practices in the ongoing CMA investigation.

On Thursday, FIVP member Steve Carter will be available to discuss how veterinary surgeons and nurses can pursue practice ownership.

FIVP will also be offering independent practices three months of free membership if they sign up at the stand.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP business development manager, said: "It's a wonderful opportunity to discuss our representation in the CMA enquiry and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for independent practice."