Animal Welfare Bill
14 July 2004
"By the very nature of our work, with our scientific and practical expertise, vets are in the front line of animal welfare. Indeed at present successful prosecution relies almost entirely on evidence from a vet. For this reason we particularly welcome the imposition of a 'duty of care' on the keeper of any animal and the decision to modernise and re-define the offence of cruelty. No vet should ever again need to stand in the witness box trying to define concepts such as 'cruelty' or 'suffering'.
"We also welcome the decision to impose a ban on mutilations, but will need to see just what limited exceptions the Government has in mind with regard to tail docking of dogs.
"It has often been said that owning an animal is a privilege, not a right. With the publication of this bill, and the recent launch of the animal health and welfare strategy, the Government has provided the opportunity for society to make this a fact."
Notes for Editors:
- For further information please contact Chrissie Nicholls or Helena Cotton in the BVA Press Office on 020 7636 6541 or email chrissien@bva.co.uk.