New Regulations To Stop Puppy Farming

New regulations on dog breeding are to come into force in Northern Ireland in April this year.

Under the Welfare of Animals Regulations (NI) 2013, the new regulations will mean a new definition for a commercial breeding establishment.

All commercial breeding establishments will require a license, unless they apply for exemption.

All dogs and pups in the establishment will be required to be microchipped.

Breeders must now control the age at which a bitch can be bred and the number of litters that can be produced in her lifetime, as well as the minimum age a pup can leave the breeder.

Breeding establishments will have to maintain records and introduce written socialisation and enrichment programmes for approval by the council.

Exemptions will be made for registered hunt clubs that do not sell dogs or pups, as well as registered charities that do not breed dogs.

Minister O’Neill said: "These Regulations set out clear welfare standards with which commercial dog breeders must comply. They provide the powers to allow action to be taken where a breeder does not meet these standards. Council inspectors will have strong enforcement powers to take action and to prosecute as necessary any commercial breeder who is operating in sub-standard conditions.

"I appreciate that regulation alone will not stop so called 'puppy farming'. This will take a concerted effort by members of the public, future dog owners, good breeders and enforcement agencies working together to identify breeders, licensed or unlicensed, who put financial gain before the welfare needs of their dogs and pups. However, the new enforcement powers and tough penalties will act as a strong deterrent to those taking part in illegal dog breeding activities, sending out a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated."

The Minister continued: "I would call on all future dog owners never to buy a pup from a breeder who suggests meeting you in a car park or other public place to save you travelling to their breeding establishment. Always insist on seeing the puppies with their mother. Working together we can and will stop puppy farming."

(IT)