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.