New regulations for dog breeders

Dog breeders in Powys are being reminded by the county council that new regulations are now in force.

Powys County Council’s Trading Standards Service has issued the reminder to ensure that dog breeders are complying.

The Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2014 came into force at the end of April and are part of a package of measures to improve dog welfare. One of the measures introduced is a minimum staff ratio of one full-time attendant to every 20 adult dogs.

Cllr John Powell, Cabinet Member for Trading Standards, said: “There has been a commitment made to improve the standards of animal health and welfare in Wales for both farmed animals and pets.

“The new dog breeding regulations are aimed at stamping out any irresponsible breeding practices in Wales and we will be playing a crucial role in ensuring that the regulations are followed by breeders.

“They will also provide an opportunity for raising standards in the industry where, on occasion, improvement may be necessary.  Our officers will be able to discuss the requirements of the regulations with any breeder who wants advice about these regulations.”