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Animal Welfare Act 2006
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The Acts introduces the new legal
concept of a "Duty of Care", which means that people are now legaly obliged
to ensure the welfare of their animals. The Acts also strenghthens
penalties for anyone convicted of an animal welfare offence, as well giving
law enforcement agencies the power to take action to prevent animal suffering
before it has a chance to occur.
The Animal Welfare Act requires anyone who is responsible for a pet to do
what is reasonable to meet their welfare needs - these include:
A proper Diet (including water)
Somewhere suitable to live
Any need to be housed with or apart from, other animals
Allowing animals to express normal behaviour
Protection from pain, suffering, injury and disease
The penalty for failing to care for a pet could be a fine or even a prison
sentance
The Acts are currently primary (framework) legislation and Dogs Trust is
continuing to work with government on secondary legislation and codes of
practice. We have produced a plain English Guide to the dog-specific
parts of the Acts. If you would like a copy please call customer
services on :
