The regulation of dog breeding establishments is a matter for local authorities in accordance with the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010.
Section 9 of the Act requires each local authority to establish and maintain a register of dog breeding establishments situated in their respective functional areas and persons intending to operate such establishments must apply to their relevant local authority for inclusion in the register. If successful, the applicant will be awarded a “registration certificate” confirming registration.
In considering such applications, local authorities shall not register an establishment if, for example, by reason of an offence committed by the applicant under the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010 or Control of Dogs Act 1986, or an offence involving cruelty to an animal, the local authority considers such refusal necessary to safeguard animal welfare.
Similarly, in accordance with section 12 of the 2010 Act, a local authority may apply to the District Court for an order removing an establishment from the register if, in the context of a “relevant contravention” of the legislation, it is considered necessary for safeguarding an animal’s welfare. Where such an order is granted removing an establishment from the register, the relevant local authority is required to enter a statement in the register, stating the reasons for the removal, and the operator is required to surrender its registration certificate.
Subsequent applications by such operators for inclusion in the dog breeding establishment register would be considered by local authorities in accordance with the provisions of section 9 of the 2010 Act and the need to safeguard animal welfare.
