England
In October 2018 Defra introduced the Animal Welfare (Activities Involving Animals) Regulations 2018. The Regulations introduced new licensing procedures for selling of pets, boarding for cats and dogs, hiring of horses, breeding of dogs and keeping or training animals for exhibition. In February 2018 a call for evidence was launched and this was followed by a four week consultation in August 2018 on plans to introduce a ban on the commercial third-party sales of puppies and kittens in England. The consultation also sought views on the licensing of rehoming and rescue centres to avoid current third party sellers claiming exemption to any possible ban.
On 23 December Defra [Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs] confirmed it will be banning the third party sales of puppies and kittens in England.
Northern Ireland
During 2018 DAERA reviewed the matter of animal establishments in Northern Ireland, including establishments that sell pets. In 2019, DAERA intends to engage with stakeholders to obtain their views on the future licensing system in Northern Ireland.
Scotland
In September 2018 the Scottish Government launched a consultation to seek views on proposals to introduce new regulations for the licensing of dog, cat and rabbit breeding activities in Scotland.
The consultation considered how thresholds for licensing may be determined depending on the size of the undertaking and how this may work for organisations with multiple premises.
Wales
See post Wales Comments Closed