Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps they are taking to ensure that there are regular inspection regimes, based on good husbandry practice, for all pet suppliers including shops, breeders and re-homing centres.

Local authorities are required by law to license anyone selling animals as a business and dog breeders. Before issuing a licence the local authority must inspect the premises concerned. Clear guidance and model conditions are available to assist this process. Powers are also available to local authorities to re-inspect including in response to concerns about poor welfare.

Re-homing centres are not subject to a specific regulatory regime but local authorities have powers under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to investigate if there are concerns about poor animal welfare.