PLANS to introduce a strict licensing framework for dog breeding businesses in Scotland have been announced.
The Scottish Government has proposed a licensing scheme designed to reduce unethical breeding practices, regulate services offered, ensure higher standards of care and protect animals' welfare.
Businesses offering canine fertility services will be licensed each year under the scheme and will be subjected to regular inspections to ensure their compliance with licensing conditions.
The proposed scheme by the government is in response to concerns raised by vets and animal welfare groups over the unregulated nature of businesses offering fertility services.
In a consultation held last year, 89 per cent of respondents said they supported the government’s plan to license dog fertility services.
Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie (below) said it is unacceptable that businesses can operate with very little regulatory measures or accountability and that these licenses will help uphold high animal welfare standards in Scotland.
He said: “It is clear to me that there are significant concerns about the activities of canine fertility businesses.
“It is unacceptable that these businesses can operate with little in the way of regulatory oversight or accountability.
“Our decision follows careful consideration of the views expressed following public consultation last year, as well as extensive discussions with those in the veterinary profession, animal welfare organisations and local authorities.
“Our intention to bring in these measures demonstrates that we remain firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of animal welfare in Scotland.”
Scottish SPCA director of innovation and strategic relations, Gilly Mendes Ferreira, welcomed the announcement and supported the government's move for stricter regulations for dog breeding businesses.
She said: “We have seen a surge in the establishment of canine fertility businesses in recent years, especially involving high value breeds like French Bulldogs which often struggle to give birth naturally.
“We welcome the Scottish Government’s responsiveness to our concerns and support the move to license these businesses. It will be imperative that licensing inspections are conducted by registered, experienced veterinary surgeons.
“We look forward to collaborating closely on the details of the new framework for licensing these establishments in Scotland.”
The Scottish Government said secondary legislation to allow for licensing of canine fertility clinics will be introduced to Parliament at the earliest opportunity.
