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New breeding laws for Wales

Welsh government tackles puppy farming


New dog breeding legislation has been introduced by the Welsh government, in an attempt to improve welfare and address the issue of puppy farming.

The draft Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) 2013, provides a set of guidelines as to the standards required from licensed breeding premises.

These guidelines state that breeders must have socialisation and enrichment programmes in place for dogs on the premises and that the animals must be microchipped.

The maximum number of dogs that one person can look after has also been set to 20, excluding any puppies born to the animals.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has welcomed the move, and president Peter Jones commented: "We are delighted that the Welsh Government has put dog welfare back at the top of the agenda…

"Vets are often faced with the terrible consequences of puppy farms and bad breeders, which can lead to suffering for both the animals and their owners."

According to a statement from Alun Davies, minister for natural resources and food, it is proposed that the new regulations will come into force on January 1, 2014. The draft legislation is to be debated on July 2, 2013.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

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.