Pet owners face code of practice

[paulham]

Cat and dog owners are to be told to provide "entertainment" and "mental stimulation" for their pets under new government advice.

The code of practice also includes advice on diet and providing "somewhere suitable to go to the toilet".

It says owners should watch for signs of stress and advises on introducing cats to dogs without the fur flying.

Owners will not be fined for breaking the rules but failure to comply may be used in animal cruelty prosecutions.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said it wanted to remind pet owners of their responsibilities under the 2006 Animal Welfare Act.

The 26 page document on cat welfare begins with a warning to owners: "It is your responsibility to read the complete Code of Practice to fully understand your cat's welfare needs and what the law requires you to do."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/7708411.stm

http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/welfare-cats-cop/consultation.pdf

Frankly, I'm glad that the government aren't wasting our money in this time of recession.

[loulou]

I talk to my cat and dog all the time and it's definitely sent them both mental.