Lucy’s Law: What is it? How will it protect puppies & kittens?
At the beginning of April (2020), following a 10-year campaign, the UK government introduced landmark legislation to tackle the sale of puppies & kittens from high volume, low welfare sources. The sale of these animals from commercial ‘third-party’ suppliers has effectively been banned.
What does that mean?
We, like all the vets in Cambridge are delighted to see the introduction of this legislation. In our view the new rules will significantly increase welfare standards for many puppies and kittens. Too often we saw the results of extremely poor breeding and care practices.
Part of the Government’s announcement read…
‘Lucy’s Law’ means that anyone wanting to get a new puppy or kitten in England must now buy direct from a breeder or consider adopting from a rescue centre instead. Licensed dog breeders are required to show puppies interacting with their mothers in their place of birth. If a business sells puppies or kittens without a licence, they could receive an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to six months.
You can read the Government’s full statement and get official advice on how to buy your pet safely from the links below.We’d also be grateful if you can help us to raise awareness of the new law and the best ways to buy a new pet by sharing this story with friends and family.