Government working to uphold high standards of animal welfare
Michael Creed, minister for agriculture, food and the marine in the Irish government has announced funding of €2,906,000 to be awarded immediately to 106 animal welfare organisations across the Republic of Ireland.
The minister said “it gives me great pleasure in awarding this funding, which is the largest ever allocation of funding by my department to animal welfare organisations.”
Mr Creed also announced new legislation around the sale and supply of pet animals. This includes stricter guidelines on the online advertising of pets for sale in the country. Advertisements must now include certain basic information on the animal and, in regards to dogs, must include its’ microchip number.
It was also stated that anyone selling more than five pet animals across a year must register with the department of agriculture, food and the marine (DAFM).
“The introduction of this legislation is the culmination of a public consultation to get the public’s views on the sale and supply of pet animals.” Commented Mr Creed.
“I was very pleased with the response, which included views of animal welfare charities and the industry.”
A new voluntary code of practice is also being published for sellers and suppliers of pets in the Republic of Ireland. This contains guidance on animal welfare and encompasses public health concerns such as the need for good hygiene when handling animals and the health risks to children in regards to reptiles.
The minister commended the organisations that will receive the funding, stating that their staff and volunteers “provide great support and commitment to protecting surrendered, abandoned and at-risk animals.”
A full list of the organisations can be found on the DAFM website.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
