Animal health and welfare
We carry out frequent checks of markets and animals in transit to make sure that animal welfare is not compromised and unfit animals are not transported.
Checks are also made in relation to animal welfare at premises licensed by us under the following:
- Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963
- Breeding of Dogs Acts 1973 and 1991
- Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, as modified 1984
- Pet Animals Act 1951
- Performing Animals (Regulation) Act 1925
- Zoo Licensing Act 1981
The Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 places a duty of care on pet owners and others responsible for animals to make sure that the welfare needs of their animals are met. This include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish.
The act also gives new powers to the local authority Animal Health and Welfare Officers and other persons appointed or authorised by the Scottish Ministers to take action to prevent animals from suffering where this is considered likely.
Scottish Government animal welfare guidance
In order to secure a high level of welfare in livestock and other animals, the Scottish Government has published various codes of recommendation and practice.
Transport of animals
Read our guidance on the following subjects:
- Cleansing and disinfection of vehicles
- Livestock transport vehicles
- Farm animal transport journey times
- Transporting horses by road
- Welfare of animals during transport
- Transporting livestock by road
Read The Scottish Government advice on commercial animal transport.
Read DEFRA's guidance on welfare of animals during transport.