Overview

This Bill aims to improve the welfare of dogs, cats, and ferrets imported into the UK by restricting their importation and non-commercial movement. It allows for the creation of regulations to control these aspects, focusing on age, pregnancy, mutilation, and the number of animals transported.

Description

The Bill grants appropriate national authorities (the Secretary of State, Scottish Ministers, Welsh Ministers, and DAERA in Northern Ireland) the power to create regulations governing the import of dogs, cats, and ferrets. These regulations can:

• Prohibit or restrict imports based on specified criteria (e.g., age, pregnancy status, mutilation).
• Establish permit systems for exemptions to import restrictions.
• Set fees for permit applications.
• Outline enforcement procedures.
• Make provisions regarding seized or detained animals, including cost recovery and ownership transfer.
• Introduce monetary penalties for violations.

Initial Restrictions:

The first set of regulations must prohibit the import of dogs and cats under six months old, over 42 days pregnant, or that have been mutilated (defined as procedures interfering with sensitive tissues or bone structure not for medical treatment).

Amendments to Existing Regulations:

The bill modifies existing EU regulations to treat the movement of more than five dogs, cats, or ferrets in a motor vehicle (or three in other cases) as commercial, and that the owner must be with the animals within 5 days of arrival. It also makes consequential amendments to the Trade in Animals and Related Products Regulations across the UK.

Government Spending

The Bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. However, there will be costs associated with implementing and enforcing the new regulations, including staffing, permit processing, and potential animal care costs for seized animals. The introduction of permit fees may partially offset these costs.

Groups Affected

• Importers of dogs, cats, and ferrets: Will face stricter regulations and potentially higher costs.
• Animal welfare organisations: May benefit from improved animal welfare standards.
• Breeders and sellers: Could see their businesses affected by import restrictions.
• Pet owners: Will need to comply with the new regulations when bringing pets into the UK.
• Government agencies: Will be responsible for implementing and enforcing the new regulations.

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