Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Welsh Govt to regulate animal welfare establishments
More than 80 per cent of respondents to the consultation agreed that animal welfare establishments should be subject to licensing.

RSPCA Cymru welcomes ‘landmark’ proposals.

The Welsh Government has announced that it is developing proposals for the regulation of animal welfare establishments.

The move follows a consultation on the licensing of establishments like rescues, sanctuaries, rehabilitation and rehoming centres. 

It also comes after years of campaigning by animal charity RSPCA, including a landmark report in 2023 urging the Welsh government to take action.

Huw Irranca-Davies, deputy first minister and cabinet secretary for climate change and rural affairs, said: “We recognise the need for consistent, proportionate, and enforceable standards to protect animal health and welfare, and support the positive work undertaken to prevent wrongdoing and mistreatment”.

He added that the Welsh Government will also consider pet grooming under its proposals, as it is a ‘skilled and specialist activity’ that is widespread but currently unregulated.

More than 80 per cent of respondents to the consultation agreed that animal welfare establishments should be subject to licensing. 

The respondents concurred that licensing could ensure appropriate checks are conducted before being granted a licence, and that the persons delivering the services would have suitable experience and/or qualifications. 

Billie-Jade Thomas,
RSPCA Cymru’s senior public affairs manager, described the decision as a ‘landmark milestone for animal welfare in Wales’.

“Many owners of sanctuaries and other animal welfare establishments undertake hugely important work, but the lack of regulation and oversight has long been a major concern for the RSPCA," they said. 

“Our officers have too often dealt with situations that have spiralled out of control – with capacity, governance and financial issues all a reality for many sanctuaries; demonstrating the clear need for regulation. We have undertaken four prosecutions relevant to AWEs since 2018 and inevitably it is us that needs to step in when animal welfare becomes compromised in these establishments.
 
“We now look forward to hearing more about the proposals and look forward to helping the Welsh Government on their next steps. We are also delighted to hear that the Welsh Government is considering the regulation of pet grooming as well which could offer further welcome assurances to pet owners about the businesses they use.”

Image (C) Shutterstock.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.