New Petitions

The second new petition for consideration is PE1842, which was lodged by Valerie Deerin-Morris. The petition calls on the Scottish Government to regulate and license the professional dog walking industry.

The Scottish Government’s submission explains that professional dog walking, dog minding and other associated services are not currently governed explicitly by animal welfare legislation. The welfare of dogs subject to such services is, however, protected by the general requirements of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

During stage 3 of the Animals and Wildlife (Penalties, Protections and Powers) (Scotland) Bill, the Minister for Rural Affairs and the Natural Environment outlined some of the on-going improvements that are being made concerning the welfare of animals. Those include further licensing legislation, consultation on animal transport improvements and continuing work on illegal puppy dealing. The Government suggests in its submission that the plan could be extended in due course to cover those offering animal services such as dog walking and training.

I think that the petition is really interesting, and I got some comfort from what the minister said. It is reassuring that there is an awareness of the issues that have been highlighted and that some of them could be addressed through provisions that are already in place. The petitioner makes a compelling case for something to be done in the area; the question is how that is done.

There is a recognition that there is an issue, and it is clear that the Government is aware that there are significant issues relating to animal welfare. Gail Ross’s point about our being proactive in recognising that issues might be developing, as opposed to simply investigating existing problems, was well made.

We agree to write to the Minister for Rural Affairs and the Natural Environment to seek further information in that regard and to ask how the Government will deal with the issues that have been flagged up in the petition.