More than 80 per cent of respondents to the consultation agreed that animal welfare establishments should be subject to licensing.

RSPCA Cymru welcomes ‘landmark’ proposals.

The Welsh Government has announced that it is developing proposals for the regulation of animal welfare establishments.

The move follows a consultation on the licensing of establishments like rescues, sanctuaries, rehabilitation and rehoming centres. 

It also comes after years of campaigning by animal charity RSPCA, including a landmark report in 2023 urging the Welsh government to take action.

Huw Irranca-Davies, deputy first minister and cabinet secretary for climate change and rural affairs, said: “We recognise the need for consistent, proportionate, and enforceable standards to protect animal health and welfare, and support the positive work undertaken to prevent wrongdoing and mistreatment”.

He added that the Welsh Government will also consider pet grooming under its proposals, as it is a ‘skilled and specialist activity’ that is widespread but currently unregulated.

More than 80 per cent of respondents to the consultation agreed that animal welfare establishments should be subject to licensing. 

The respondents concurred that licensing could ensure appropriate checks are conducted before being granted a licence, and that the persons delivering the services would have suitable experience and/or qualifications. 

Billie-Jade Thomas, RSPCA Cymru’s senior public affairs manager, described the decision as a ‘landmark milestone for animal welfare in Wales’.

“Many owners of sanctuaries and other animal welfare establishments undertake hugely important work, but the lack of regulation and oversight has long been a major concern for the RSPCA," they said. 

“Our officers have too often dealt with situations that have spiralled out of control – with capacity, governance and financial issues all a reality for many sanctuaries; demonstrating the clear need for regulation. We have undertaken four prosecutions relevant to AWEs since 2018 and inevitably it is us that needs to step in when animal welfare becomes compromised in these establishments.
 
“We now look forward to hearing more about the proposals and look forward to helping the Welsh Government on their next steps. We are also delighted to hear that the Welsh Government is considering the regulation of pet grooming as well which could offer further welcome assurances to pet owners about the businesses they use.”

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