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Wales’ dog breeding laws to be revisited following calls for improvements
A BBC documentary filmed over 12 months, found that poor animal welfare was still an issue in Wales.

Government estimates that local authorities will need increased funding

The Welsh Government has confirmed that it will revise dog breeding regulations in the country amid a claim that there is likely to be an increase in the funding requirements of local authorities.

Currently, anyone in Wales with three or more breeding bitches meeting certain conditions must be licensed. However, a recent documentary by the BBC revealed that poor breeding practices and welfare concerns are still an issue, even at approved sites.

Following a report on dog breeding published by the Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group, the Welsh Government asserted that breeding laws need to be reexamined, and that local authorities will likely need additional funding in order to enforce animal welfare legislation.

The RSPCA's assistant director for external relations in Wales, Claire Lawson said: "Wales' new dog breeding laws, passed in 2014, marked a big step forward for animal welfare - but the RSPCA has long highlighted that further improvements are necessary.

"It's really welcome that the Welsh Government are looking again at these laws, and that the Minister described this as urgent.

"We'll continue to campaign for more emphasis on tackling genetic issues at breeding establishments, a staff-to-dog ratio that better considers welfare, and possible action to tackle bad cat breeding practices too.

"However, what is really important is that local authorities feel equipped and resourced to enforce animal welfare laws - including on dog breeding, microchipping, equine control and so much else…so the Welsh Government's acknowledgement that more funding will likely be needed is also a hugely positive development."

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New RCVS Academy courses to remove barriers in vet care

News Story 1
 The RCVS Academy has launched two courses to its new client support series, as it seeks to improve accessibility in veterinary settings.

The courses will help professionals to support assistance dog partnerships and clients with hearing loss.

The Hearing loss and Assistance dogs courses saw RCVS project lead Catherine Hemingway collaborate with the British Deaf Association and Assistance Dogs UK. Vets will gain practical guidance on supporting clients with additional needs.

Each course takes an hour to complete, and can be accessed by RCVS registrants for free. 

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News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.