Paul Donnelly
Question:814. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the sections of animal welfare in particular under which the remit of dogs fall. [34927/20]
View answerTuesday, 10 November 2020
Questions (814)
Written answers
The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 applies to all “protected animals”, that is animals in the possession of man, including dogs. The Act in its totality applies to dogs in the same manner as it applies to other domestic animals. I would draw the Deputy’s particular attention to sections 11 (1)(a) (duty to protect animal welfare), section 12(1)(b) (prohibition on neglecting or being reckless regarding animal welfare), and section 13(1)(b) (duty to provide suitable and sufficient food) of the Act which are most pertinent in relation to dogs.
Dog Breeding establishments and Boarding Kennels come under the Dog Breeding Establishment Act 2010 which applies to any establishment with more than six female dogs capable of breeding. This legislation is overseen by the Department of Rural and Community Development.
The Control of Dogs Acts, which is the responsibility of the Department of Rural and Community Development, provide for local authorities to rehome stray dogs within the circumstances set down in that Act.