Issues

Animal Cruelty Sentencing

Currently, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 individuals convicted of animal cruelty can be sentenced to a term not exceeding 51 weeks imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine.

Animal Sanctuaries

Although most animal welfare establishments, or 'sanctuaries' are invaluable resources for the improvement of animal welfare, there are times when things go wrong.

Education & Animal Welfare

RSPCA Cymru has long campaigned for greater awareness of the importance of animal welfare within Wales' educational environment and curriculum.

Ending greyhound racing in Wales

The RSPCA has significant welfare concerns for racing greyhounds throughout their lives. We are working with a number of charities as part of the Cut the Chase coalition comprising of Hope Rescue, Dogs Trust, Blue Cross and Greyhound Rescue Wales, to call for a phased end to greyhound racing in Wales.

Fireworks

It is estimated that 62 percent of dogs show signs of fear when they hear fireworks, and 54 percent and 55 percent of cats and horses also experience distress respectively.

Gamebird Rearing

The Code of Practice for the Welfare of Gamebirds Reared for Sporting Purposes was introduced by the Welsh Government on 1st January 2011. The RSPCA was very disappointed that the Government did not advise against 'enriched' cages to breed game birds.

Inspectorate Powers

RSPCA Cymru is calling for our inspectors to be granted statutory powers under sections 10, 18, 19 and 23 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Under this legislation, this would allow our inspectors to access and rescue animals quicker and serve improvement notices.

Primates as Pets

We believe primate ownership in a domestic setting is cruel and dangerous, and are calling for the Welsh Government to outlaw the practice. Unfortunately, the Welsh Government has - as of yet - not been minded to support such a ban.

Trade and Animal Welfare in Wales

The UK Government has said they will maintain and, where possible, improve standards of animal welfare in the UK, particularly as new free trade agreements (FTAs) are negotiated.