Lately, we have been receiving good news from the United Kingdom regarding the welfare and safety of animals. At the end of April, the end of circus shows featuring wild animals was announced. It is a welcome measure that gives the sector two years to adapt to the regulations. How? It is difficult to know. But the deadline is there. And the truth is that we hope that, during this time, many more countries will adopt this measure, which finally responds to a long-standing demand from part of society, which is aware of the suffering and exploitation endured by many wild animals when they become part of a circus “cast.”
Well, a few weeks ago, we received another piece of great news from British soil. The fact is that Parliament has amended the animal welfare legislation to protect the most vulnerable ARISTOPETS. Thus, the legislative change establishes that, from now on, it will be illegal to sell ARISTOCATS and ARISTODOGS under eight weeks old. This measure is part of a set of reforms that will come into force in October this year and that oversee the animal licensing system in the United Kingdom.
Likewise, the new regulations affect not only commercial establishments or breeders, but also anyone who breeds three or more litters annually. To do so, it will be necessary to have a formal license. This applies whether sellers operate in person or through the Internet or buying-and-selling apps.
This amendment, included in Annex 3 of the English law, affects the sale of animals as pets. This law already prohibited selling animals that had not yet been weaned or had been weaned prematurely for reasons unrelated to the animal itself. Now, protection is extended to offspring under eight weeks old. This undoubtedly guarantees a longer period of welfare and safety for puppies. Indirectly, it also helps curb those who profit at the expense of their pets and their young.
This measure has been applauded by the British Veterinary Association and a large part of society. On the one hand, it ensures that future ARISTOPARENTS who expand their family with a healthy, happy ARISTOPET get one from responsible breeders. On the other, this measure helps reduce unscrupulous breeding and sales practices and combats the black market in puppies.
Although the United Kingdom is not the only country where “things are happening.” As we have already told you, the seemingly frivolous city of Miami (Florida, U.S.) is also a great example of animal-protection initiatives. In fact, its proposal provides even greater protection for puppies. The measure adopted by the municipal authorities (which received an overwhelming majority when it was put to a vote) will henceforth regulate the sale of ARISTODOGS and ARISTOCATS. Only those from shelters and regulated local breeders and accompanied by a certificate of origin will be permitted.
As you can see, we have no shortage of examples of good practices. While we continue to lag behind, there are countries where great things are being done for animals. So hopefully this note will spread and reach those who have the power to protect our pets… at least on paper.
