Proposed Welsh Dog Breeding Regulations Welcomed
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has applauded the publication of draft regulations designed to regulate and control dog breeding in Wales. This is the second draft of the proposed regulations published by the Welsh Government, which now takes into account issues raised during the initial consultation period, which ran from October 2012 to January 2011.
Commenting on the news, BVA President Carl Padgett said: “The BVA has lobbied hard for the Welsh Government to press forward with legislation to tackle the issues of puppy farming and irresponsible breeding. A huge amount of work has already been completed by experts in this field and bold policies proposed. We are delighted that this issue is now back at the top of the Welsh Government’s agenda. Too often veterinary surgeons see the devastating consequences of poor breeding practices and we hope effective measures can be brought in as quickly as possible.”
“The BVA will consider in detail the changes from the first consultation and will be responding to the Welsh Government by the 27 March deadline,” he added.
Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development John Griffiths also announced that the introduction of legislation requiring all dogs in Wales to be microchipped was also under consideration. The Welsh Government will consult on plans for compulsory microchipping as a separate matter later this year.
Mr Padgett also welcomed this proposal, saying:
“Microchipping is the safest and most effective way to ensure stray pets are reunited with their owners, and that is why the BVA has joined forces with a number of animal welfare organisations to establish the Microchipping Alliance to campaign for the compulsory microchipping of all dogs. As well as promoting the responsible ownership message, another clear benefit of permanent identification is the increased traceability it provides between puppies and their breeders.”
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
