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Scotland plans licensing scheme for dog fertility clinics
The BVA has called for similar rules to be introduced in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Businesses will face mandatory inspections under the new rules.

The Scottish government has announced plans to introduce licensing for canine fertility businesses.

Under the proposed scheme, businesses that offer dog fertility services will have to apply for an annual licence and will be regularly inspected to ensure that they are complying with licensing conditions.

The Scottish government says the new licensing scheme will allow it to tackle unethical breeding practices and ensure higher standards of animal welfare.

A consultation held by the Scottish government last year saw 89 per cent of respondents express support for licensing canine fertility clinics.

Jim Fairlie, agriculture minister, said: “It is clear to me that there are significant concerns about the activities of canine fertility businesses. It is unacceptable that these businesses can operate with little in the way of regulatory oversight or accountability.

“Our decision follows careful consideration of the views expressed following public consultation last year, as well as extensive discussions with those in the veterinary profession, animal welfare organisations and local authorities.”

The move has been welcomed by the British Veterinary Association (BVA). Alongside the BSAVA, the BVA last year published recommendations for licensing canine breeding services, strengthening enforcement of animal welfare regulations, and closing legal loopholes used by some unregulated breeding clinics.

BVA president Anna Judson said: “Of course, licensing can only be successful if it is accompanied by mandatory inspections, sufficient funding for local authorities, and tough penalties for anyone found to be operating outside the law.

“We look forward to working with the Scottish government in the development of a robust licensing framework.

“We are now calling on governments in England, Wales and Northern Ireland to follow suit and act swiftly to address this pressing issue of dog welfare and breeding.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.