A total of 985 pet sellers were registered in 2021, 886 were registered in 2022, and 342 have been registered to date in 2023.
Earlier this year, the Pet Sellers' Registration process underwent a review, whereby a veterinary inspector must inspect the prospective seller/supplier's premises before they are approved on the Pet Sellers Register. Also as part of this review, each registration now only lasts for one year before their registration must be renewed.
My Department carries out regular spot-checks on advertisements selling pet animals on an ongoing basis and where potential breaches of the legislation are flagged, investigates further and takes action as necessary. Advertisements may remain active while an investigation is ongoing.
My Department is in ongoing contact with all online platforms who sell pet animals, advising them of the legislation, the Animal Health and Welfare (Sale or supply of pet animals) Regulations 2019 (No. 681 of 2019), and requesting where necessary that this legislation is clear to sellers and potential buyers. Where a seller is reported to be in breach of the guidelines for selling pets, the advert is removed and the seller is reported to the Department's regional veterinary inspectors who work with the ISPCA and local authority, who conduct a thorough investigation including premises inspection.
Responsibility for Dog Breeding Establishments lies with the Department of Rural and Community Development as provided for by the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010. An establishment keeping six or more bitches of more than six months of age capable of being used for breeding purposes falls within the scope of the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010. Local Authorities have responsibility for registration, inspection and regulation of dog breeding establishments, including enforcement activities.
Any evidence of animal cruelty or neglect of an animal’s welfare should be brought to the attention of my Department by calling the animal welfare helpline on 01 6072379 or by emailing animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie.
