Equestrian businesses and pet accommodation services are to be included in a proposed animal welfare licensing scheme.

The Scottish Government recently opened a consultation on moves to ensure consistency in standards across the animal care services sector.

Helene Mauchlen, national manager for Scotland at the British Horse Society said: “The British Horse Society and World Horse Welfare warmly welcomes this consultation, which is an opportunity for Scotland to demonstrate its commitment to animal welfare and a thriving equine sector. Riding establishments are vital to Scotland’s horse world, but regulations around their licensing need a refresh.

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“Meanwhile, the livery yards where so many people keep their horses are not regulated at all. This consultation is an opportunity to change this and give horse riders and owners the peace of mind that the welfare of horses at these establishments will be protected.”

In addition to equine businesses, the proposed scheme will cover dog walking businesses, dog grooming services, canine fertility services, pet accommodation services and greater regulation of greyhound racing in Scotland.

Environment Minister Gillian Martin said: “Scotland is a nation of pet lovers. Fortunately, the majority of people working in the animal care sector are incredibly passionate about caring for animals and already operate to high standards of animal welfare.

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"But sadly there are still some businesses which fall short when it comes to putting animal welfare first. With greater regulation of the sector, we can give more confidence to people that are interacting and buying services from animal care service providers that these businesses are operating to the highest possible welfare standards.

“However, we must also strike a balance with any proposed regulation – to ensure those already operating to a high standard aren’t unduly affected. That is why we are consulting and I encourage organisations, businesses and the public to make their views known.”

The consultation will run for 12 weeks and close on September 26 2023 and is available online at: https://consult.gov.scot/agriculture-and-rural-economy/licensing-of-activities-involving-animals/