Local community invited to have their say on animal welfare protections

The consultation begins on Monday 1 September and runs until 5pm on Monday 20 October.

The draft policy outlines how the council plans to fulfil its responsibilities under animal welfare regulations and sets out the criteria used to decide whether a new applicant or existing licence holder is suitable to receive a licence or have it renewed.

The proposed framework is designed to ensure that the highest welfare standards are upheld including providing animals with a suitable environment and diet, the ability for them to exhibit normal behaviour patterns and be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease.

Raystede is pleased to support the policy and would encourage businesses and residents in the local community to take part in the consultation and add their voices and support to the very important matter of understanding and providing good animal welfare.

Commenting on the consultation, Mark Beazley, Head of Animal Welfare at Raystede said: “We have seen first-hand the impact on animals who have sadly experienced poor welfare. Rescue centres like ours spend a lot of time, care and money on nursing these animals back to health - not only physically, but mentally and emotionally - before finding them a new home or providing them with sanctuary at Raystede.

“We welcome the focus on the 5 animal welfare needs throughout the policy and the emphasis on having suitably qualified Inspectors is something that we constantly demand as a sector. We would also be keen to see licensing expanded to include welfare organisations in the future.

“As well as rescuing, rehoming, rehabilitating and providing sanctuary to animals in need, our mission is to educate people about good animal welfare and the prevention of poor animal welfare, so this policy very much aligns with the Raystede's goals and values.”