HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
Each of the sections in this guide provides practical
advice to help comply with the provisions of Section 9
of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Those requirements that we consider important in order to
meet the provisions of the act are indicated as a must, whilst use
of should indicates those provisions which are recommended
best practice.
It should be noted that in considering those requirements that
are important in order to meet the provisions of the Act, we have
used the English Codes of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs as
guidance. For establishments to which the Welsh Codes of Practice
apply, it is strongly recommended that these be consulted when
using this document.
Kennel and contract managers may wish to begin with the areas
identified as 'musts' that are more easily achievable. However,
please note that this document has been produced by experts
in veterinary, behaviour and welfare science, the law and frontline
practitioners who all agree it illustrates expected practice in the
key areas.
MEETING THE WELFARE NEEDS OF SEIZED DOGS IN A KENNEL ENVIRONMENT 05
��� HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
GENERAL POINTS OF GOOD PRACTICE
l In order to house dogs, all premises must be licensed
under the Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963,
where appropriate, and act in accordance with the
licensing conditions set out by the local authority.
Where licensed, they must meet the minimum
legal requirements.
l The establishment's licence holder and employees
must not have any previous convictions under relevant
animal welfare legislation. Please note that this includes
convictions under older legislation that has since
been repealed.
l The seizing body eg. police, local authority or RSPCA, etc.
must reserve the right to arrange for inspections of
all kennel facilities, and carry out routine kennel
inspections as and when required during the contract
period, including inspections without prior notice.
l Where the contract manager is not directly involved
with the daily care of the dogs, they should ensure they
maintain contact with whoever is directly involved.
l The establishment licence holder must maintain a
satisfactory level of security at the premises.
l Adequate contingency steps must be in place for the
protection and/or evacuation of the dogs in case of
fire or other emergencies (as per the 1963 Act). The
name, address and telephone number of the licensee
must be permanently displayed on the premises and
also logged with the police and fire and rescue services.
Fire protection advice must be sought from the local
Fire Prevention Officer and then implemented.
l Sufficient adequately trained staff should be available
every day to ensure that the welfare needs of the dogs
at the establishment are met.
l When staff are caring for and working with the dogs
they must give them their undivided attention.
For example, mobile phones must be switched off
except for breaks and lunch. This helps ensure better
staff interaction with the dogs, improving the animals'
welfare, and also ensures better health and safety
for staff.