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Pet rights for renters included in Scottish housing bill
If passed, the bill will mean that private landlords can no longer unreasonably refuse a request to keep a pet.
Landlords will not be able to unreasonably refuse requests to keep a pet.

The Scottish government has published a new bill that could give renters in Scotland new rights to keep pets.

Under the Housing (Scotland) Bill, private and social housing tenants will have the right to request to keep a pet, which landlords will not be able to unreasonably refused. Currently, it is up to private landlords whether or not they choose to give a tenant written permission to keep a pet.

The bill, which follows three public consultations, will be looked at by MSPs before being voted on in the Scottish parliament.

Patrick Harvie, tenants’ rights minister, said: “A fairer, well-regulated rented sector is good for both tenants and landlords. Tenants benefit from improved conditions and security, while good responsible landlords will thrive when their good practice is recognised by regulation.”

The proposed legislation has been welcomed by Dogs Trust. With one in ten rehoming requests received by Dogs Trust involving issues with accommodation, the charity has been campaigning for greater rights for responsible pet owners who rent their home.

Claire Wilson-Leary, Dogs Trust’s public affairs manager, said: “We welcome proposals within the Housing (Scotland) Bill that, if passed, will mean landlords cannot unreasonably refuse consent for private tenants to keep a pet. We have long called for stronger rights for responsible dog owning tenants to be able to keep a pet.  
 
“We will be engaging with the Scottish government to clarify details of when it would be reasonable for landlords to refuse consent to ensure that tenants are not unjustly denied the right to keep a pet.”

Similar legislation for England is currently going through the UK parliament as part of the Renters (Reform) Bill.

Image © Shutterstock

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Avian Influenza Prevention Zone introduced across Wales

News Story 1
 An Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been introduced across Wales.

From 30 January, all bird keepers in Wales must implement strict biosecurity measures to protect poultry and captive birds. This includes a mandatory self-assessment checklist.

The Animal & Plant Health Agency has already introduced AIPZs in Scotland and England, with mandatory housing in some parts of England. The avian influenza interactive map reveals where restrictions are in place, with further information about Wales' AIPZ here

Click here for more...
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Applications open for RCVS Fellowship

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has opened applications for veterinary surgeons to join the RCVS Fellowship.

The RCVS Fellowship is a learned society which works to advance veterinary standards and promote scientific excellence.

Veterinary surgeons can enter the RCVS Fellowship through three routes, each with different criteria. This enables people with a range of expertise and experience to join the society.

The routes are: Meritorious Contributions to Clinical Practice, Meritorious Contributions to Knowledge and Meritorious Contributions to the Profession.

Applicants must share a summary of their contributions to the profession, including examples of significant works produced throughout their career. The application will then be assessed by a panel of judges against a set of criteria.

Veterinary surgeons have until 4pm on Friday, 14 March to submit applications. More information, including requirements and guidance can be found here.