The Animal Health & Welfare team carry out frequent routine checks of markets and of animals in transit to ensure that animal welfare is not compromised and unfit animals are not transported. Checks are also made in support of and at the request of Environmental Health in relation to animal welfare at premises licensed by the council 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 which came into force in October 2006 now places a duty of care on pet owners and others responsible for animals to ensure that the welfare needs of their animals are met. Animals include mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish. The new Act also gives new powers to local authority Animal Health & 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.
For further information please refer to the Scottish Government Website - Introduction to Animal Welfare.