Members should be aware of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.  Not only is it against the law to be cruel to an animal, you must also ensure that the welfare needs of your animals are met.

 

What does the Animal Welfare Act do?

 

It makes owners and keepers responsible for ensuring that the welfare needs of animals are met.

 

These include the need:

• For a suitable environment (place to live)

• For a suitable diet

• To exhibit normal behaviour patterns

• To be housed with, or apart from, other animals (if applicable)

• To be protected from pain, injury, suffering and disease

 

Anyone who is cruel to an animal, or does not provide for its welfare needs, may be fined up to £20,000 and/or sent to prison.

 

You can click on the link below to access the DEFRA website for more information about the Act, and how it affects you.