What plans does the Welsh Government have to review pet vending legislation, given that the Pet Animals Act 1951 no longer reflects the modern sales market and online trade in puppies, kittens and other pets?
In plenary on 29th January I announced my intention to make a statement and publish the Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group’s report following February’s recess. The recommendations are comprehensive and include consideration of other legislation linked to the breeding and selling of dogs as well as enforcement, training of local authority officials and vets and amendments to licence conditions.
Officials launched a social media campaign on 29 November 2019 which was aimed at prospective puppy purchasers. This has highlighted the importance of responsibly sourcing a pet. We also support the work of Pet Advertising Advisory Group (PAAG) which was set up in 2001 to address the growing concerns of irresponsible advertising of pets for sale. PAAG aims to ensure that pets are advertised for sale are done so legally and ethically. This ongoing work is vital, especially given the challenges of regulating the online advertising and sale of pets.
As well as working closely with PAAG, Welsh Government officials regularly engage with third sector organisations both directly and via their membership of groups such as the Animal Welfare Network Wales. They undertake valuable projects and campaigns, some endorsed by the Welsh Government, covering issues such as responsible ownership and the responsible advertising and sourcing of pets.
Officials will continue to engage with these organisations to ensure Welsh Government policies are reflected in their work programmes.