Charity visit for Welsh environment minister
Image: John Griffiths
An environment minister has visited Bridgend Dogs Trust to observe the charity's work and encourage responsible dog ownership Wales.
John Griffiths, environment minister for the Welsh Government, said he was impressed at what he saw at the Dogs Trust and that ongoing work is taking place to ensure that Wales has more responsible dog owners.
"We believe that by using legislation and developing higher welfare standards, we can make a significant difference to preventing incidents of dog attacks in Wales," he explained.
"There are a lot of good and responsible dog owners but I want to see those numbers increase."
He highlighted that current action taking place in the Welsh Government includes addressing dog breeding issues, introducing compulsory microchipping and early intervention to control dangerous dogs.
"We want to encourage more people to be responsible owners and to make an informed decision before bringing a dog into their homes. The Welsh Government is promoting a culture of change in attitudes to dog ownership.
"Our proposals through the Control of Dogs Bill, which is out for consultation until March 1, focus on early intervention. The intervention process will include a requirement for mandatory training."
The Dogs Trust campaigns manager for Wales, Sian Edwards, commented: "The issue of out-of-control dogs is a very serious one and we believe that the promotion of responsible dog ownership through positive reinforcement training, as demonstrated to Mr Griffiths at the centre, is the way forward.
"At Dogs Trust Bridgend, roughly over 50 per cent of dogs handed to us have had insufficient training and are given up for this reason.
"We welcome the Welsh Government's commitment to tackling dog control issues and promoting responsible ownership and eagerly await the outcome of the current consultation."
There are currently about half a million dogs in Wales – "a nation of dog lovers," says Mr Griffiths.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
