Breaches of Animal Health Act 'will not be tolerated'
Anyone failing in their duties to meet the health and welfare needs of their animals will be prosecuted, a Welsh minister has warned.
The warning follows the publication of a report by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) which looked into the number of prosecutions taken under the Animal Health Act 1981. The report revealed that in 2014 there were 11 convictions in Wales, culminating in over £68,000 in fines and associated costs.
Rebecca Evans, Welsh deputy minister for farming and food said: “High standards of animal health and welfare help to sustain a profitable and professional farming industry. These convictions are isolated cases and the vast majority of animal owners take their responsibilities seriously.
"However, any breaches of the Animal Health Act will not be tolerated and we will work with local authorities and APHA to take action where possible against anyone who fails to meet the health needs of their animals."
“The Welsh Government is committed to ensuring that all animals in Wales have a high standard of health and welfare," Rebecca added
"Last year, I launched our new Wales Animal Health and Welfare Framework which is building on nine years of work following devolution of powers in this area. In 2006 we gave Local Authorities more powers to prosecute individuals for offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006."
Anyone who has concerns that farmed animals are not receiving adequate care should contact the Local Authority Trading Standards Department.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
