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Animal Welfare issues debated by MPs in Westminster Hall
DEFRA expressed their support for tackling puppy smuggling.
Key issues including puppy smuggling discussed

Tougher animal cruelty sentences, rescue centre regulations and the international movement of puppies was debated in Westminster Hall on 4 December 2018.

Led by Jim Fitzpatrick MP, a committed animal welfare advocate, many of the issues raised were welcomed by Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Present at the debate was DEFRA minister David Rutley MP, who expressed his support for tackling illegal puppy smuggling and the exploitation of the current international Pet Travel Scheme.

The Association of Dogs and Cats Homes (ADCH) composed a ‘Minimum Standards’ proposal in regard to the regulation of animal rescue centres. The proposal consists of a template for establishing best practice and protecting animal welfare.

The Government's commitment to five-year sentences for animal cruelty was restated by the minister, however Battersea were disappointed that a date for a new Bill is yet to be arranged.

Battersea have offered their support and assistance in matters raised during the debate in order to “help save animals from mistreatment in the future.”

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Reporting service for dead wild birds updated

News Story 1
 The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.

The new version allows those reporting a dead bird to drop a pin on a map when reporting the location. It also includes a wider range of wild bird species groups to select from when describing the bird.

The online service, which helps APHA to monitor the spread of diseases such as avian influenza, can be accessed here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
NI chief vet urges bluetongue vigilance

Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer (CVO) has urged farmers to be vigilant for signs of bluetongue, after the Animal and Plant Health Agency warned there was a very high probability of further cases in Great Britain.

There have been 126 confirmed cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 in England since November 2023, with no cases reported in Northern Ireland. The movement of live ruminants from Great Britain to Northern Ireland is currently suspended.

According to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the virus is most likely to enter Northern Ireland through infected animals or germplasm (semen or ova) being imported.

Brian Dooher, Northern Ireland's CVO, said: "Surveillance for this disease within Northern Ireland has been increased to assist with detection at the earliest opportunity which will facilitate more effective control measures."

Farmers should report any suspicions of the disease to their private veterinary practitioner, the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or their local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.