Carol, Author at Dog Breed Health

Queens’ Speech New Legislation for Animal Welfare: Recognition of Animal Sentience

A historical development to protect animals was announced in the Queen’s Speech. The Government has promised that new legislation which recognises animal sentience in all vertebrates will be enacted. This goes some way to ensure that the UK has and promotes the highest standards of animal welfare. It acknowledges that our society’s understanding of who other animals are has evolved and that our laws must evolve to reflect the new awareness. We must recognise animals as sentient beings with language, intelligence and emotions deserving of legal protection from cruelty and neglect.

12/5/2021

The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2021

The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act became law on 29 April 2021. It increases the maximum sentence for the worst animal cruelty offences from six months to five years in England and Wales.

Animal Welfare Committee (AWC) March 2020

The Animal Welfare Committee (AWC) is an expert, independent committee which provides ‘independent, authoritative, impartial and timely advice, to Defra, and the Scottish and Welsh Governments.

Scottish Animal Welfare Commission (SAWC) March 2020

A new independent advisory body on animal welfare has been created in Scotland. Its 12 members are experts in animal welfare and will provide scientific and ethical advice to the Scottish Government

Defra Campaign on Puppy Buying (‘Petfished’) March 2020

Defra have launched its campaign to help puppy seekers avoid unscrupulous breeders and dealers. These people masquerade as small time, home breeders but the reality is that the puppies have been bred and kept in very poor conditions. Not to mention the poor welfare of the parent dogs. This is a major development in improving the standards of animal welfare and protecting the public from the consequences of unethical breeding practices.

https://getyourpetsafely.campaign.gov.uk