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Four weeks until stricter regulations for dog breeders come into force in Wales

Rebecca Evans, Deputy Minister for Farming and Food, has reminded dog breeders in Wales they have four weeks left until the law changes to create stricter welfare criteria for dogs and puppies in their care.

These changes, which will apply from 30 April 2015, will affect breeders who keep three or more breeding bitches. They include a minimum staff ratio of one attendant to 20 adult dogs and a requirement for breeders to adopt socialisation plans for puppies and enhancement and enrichment programmes for all dogs.

Deputy Minister for Farming and Food, Rebecca Evans said:

"There has been increasing public concern in recent years over the way in which some dogs are bred in Wales, including in licensed premises.

"I set out a personal commitment to improve the standards of animal health and welfare in Wales for both farmed animals and pets in the Animal Health and Welfare Framework. The regulations that are coming into force will raise dog breeding standards across Wales and help to stamp out irresponsible breeding practices.

"The standards that are being introduced next month are just one example of the Welsh Government's work to improve dog welfare. In 2010, Welsh Government legislated to ban electronic shock collars, and I am currently consulting on the technical aspects of introducing compulsory microchipping of all dogs in Wales, including those on breeding premises."

Chief Veterinary Officer for Wales, Professor Christianne Glossop said:

"The importance of appropriate socialisation of a puppy cannot be underestimated. The experiences a puppy goes through between three and 14 weeks will have a lasting impact on its behaviour in later life. These Regulations acknowledge the key role breeders play in helping every puppy in their care go on to become good a good family pet."

The Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2014 will replace the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973 in Wales. Breeders need to contact their Local Authority to obtain a dog breeding licence or for more information about the changes.

 

Channel website: http://gov.wales

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