Scotland plans licensing scheme for dog fertility clinics
The BVA has called for similar rules to be introduced in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
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.”
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Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
