HOW COUNCILS CAN HELP
Local authorities are not just administrators of licences. They are a crucial line of defence against poor breeding practices, illegal selling and avoidable animal suffering.
A strong local authority approach should include:
- annual inspections of licensed breeders;
- proper follow-up when complaints are received;
- trained officers with animal welfare licensing expertise;
- clear use of improvement notices and other enforcement tools;
- transparent public information about licensed breeders;
- proactive monitoring of online puppy adverts where possible.
Summary Briefing
Recommendations on Strengthening Enforcement and Regulation of Dog Breeding Licences in the UK
Puppy breeding and licensing: a postcode lottery of enforcement
Our report sets out the evidence and makes clear recommendations for change