Minister Muir is pictured with members of the Expert Advisory Group who will review Dog Breeding Regulations in Northern Ireland; (L-R) Susan Cunningham, Dr Gareth Arnott who will Chair the panel and Vanessa Barnes.
An expert advisory group has been appointed to assess and review dog breeding regulations in Northern Ireland, as part of DAERA Minister Andrew Muir’s Animal Welfare Pathway.
The newly formed group will also explore whether regulation is needed around the provision of canine fertility services.
The review aims to determine the effectiveness of the current legislation and make recommendations for improvements where necessary.
The group will be chaired by Dr Gareth Arnott, Reader in animal behaviour and welfare at Queen’s University Belfast. He will be joined by Susan Cunningham, a veterinary surgeon with over 35 years’ experience in companion animal practice both locally and abroad, and Vanessa Barnes, legal advisor to the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Animal Welfare.
Welcoming the group’s formation, Minister Andrew Muir said:
“I welcome the establishment of this new expert advisory group. The Members will bring an array of knowledge, skills and experience, not only in matters relating to companion animal welfare but also in governance, leadership and decision making, which are essential in executing the role and purpose of the group.
“Having listened to calls from animal welfare stakeholders and members of the public, this review is one of my key priorities which I outlined in my Animal Welfare Pathway.”
In tandem with the group’s appointment, the Minister has also launched a public consultation on the selling and supplying of puppies and kittens.
The consultation proposes banning third-party sales and requiring sellers to register and meet specific welfare standards. However, it does not address dog breeding regulations – the focus of the advisory group’s work.
“This group will have the opportunity to shape the future of dog breeding in Northern Ireland using their professional expertise to provide me with recommendations, of which I will consider carefully before deciding next steps,” the Minister added.
“I am keen to address any deficiencies identified, where practicable, before the end of the mandate.”
The group will consult with stakeholders, review international best practices, and examine both the physical and behavioural welfare needs of breeding dogs and their offspring. It may also consider introducing additional provisions to improve animal welfare standards across the board.