The first phase of the long awaited Animal Welfare (Guernsey) Ordinance 2012 will come into effect on 1st July 2014, replacing a number of pieces of legislation that have provided protection in the past.
The initial phase will introduce the new principle of a ‘duty of care’ to all animals. This is based on the five freedoms which before now have been used as guidance for Welfare Charities but will now be a legal requirement of all pet owners.
The five freedoms are:
- freedom from thirst, hunger and malnutrition,
- freedom from discomfort,
- freedom from pain, injury and disease,
- freedom from fear and distress,
- freedom to express normal behaviour patterns.
A number of new animal welfare codes will also come into effect at the same time, most of which deal with the welfare of companion animals. Guidance for each code has also been produced and the codes and guidance will be published on the States of Guernsey website.
In addition to providing protection to animal from cruelty, the new Ordinance will also include clear provisions to regulate matters such as the abandonment of animals, animal experiments, animal fights, the control of pests, and the licensing of Animal Establishments, such as Pet shops and Livery stables; however these won’t roll in until late in the year.
The GSPCA welcomes the new legislation.
Steve Byrne, GSPCA Manager, said "It has been a long time in its preparation and implementation but at the GSPCA we welcome the new legislation that bases itself around the five freedoms."
"If anyone has a concern regarding animal cruelty then you can call us on 01481 257261 and our team will look into it and if required take it further by working alongside the States Vet and other relevant authorities."
"One of the main changes will be that under the new legislation stray animals will now include a much broader range of species and not just dogs."
"There are new procedures which will be rolled out, as well as many other parts of the law to come including the licensing of animal establishments and codes of care for animals."
You can find more information on the following web pages:
http://www.gspca.org.gg/about/guernsey-animal-law
http://www.gov.gg/animals
www.guernseylegalresources.gg/article/99630/Animal-Welfare-Guernsey-Ordinance-2012
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