1. ENVIRONMENT
Making sure dogs have a suitable place to live
06 MEETING THE WELFARE NEEDS OF SEIZED DOGS IN A KENNEL ENVIRONMENT
��� THE FIVE WELFARE NEEDS
Philip Toscano x2 & Andrew Forsyth/RSPCA Photolibrary
PARTITION WALLS
Solid walls can affect an animal's welfare as the height
may restrict the dog's control over visual access to his/her
surroundings and other dogs. Where partition walls are
needed, they must be of a suitable height and structure
to ensure dogs cannot attack or injure each other or
themselves. In kennels such as these, some dogs exhibit
repetitive behaviour e.g. bouncing or spinning, management
plans must be explored giving consideration to aspects of
the dog's environment that could be making it difficult to
cope and includes seeking advice from a suitably qualified
behavioural expert (see Appendix II) who can help carry
out an assessment on how to resolve the problem. Where
appropriate and possible, changes must be implemented.
1.1 Kennel construction
a) All kennels must be of substantial construction and
provide protection from the weather. For example, where
concrete or other building blocks or bricks are used, they
must be sealed so that they are smooth and impervious
(i.e. do not let in water) and then resealed as necessary.
Wood should not be used for new builds; however,
when it appears in existing constructions it must be
smooth and treated to render it impervious for hygiene
and safety reasons.
b) Products must not be used for kennel construction if they
contain substances that are toxic to dogs.
c) All kennels must be secure to prevent escape. For example,
doors must be close fitting and able to be secured effectively.
d) Kennels must be free from hazards. For example, there must
be no projections or rough edges liable to cause injury.
e) All internal surfaces used in the construction of walls, floors,
partitions, doors and doorframes must be durable, smooth,
impervious and easily cleaned.
f) Materials used in the construction of partition walls (i.e. walls
between adjacent kennels) must ensure the safety of the
dogs and prevent injury to any body parts. For example,
wire mesh should be of a diameter that prevents access
to neighbouring dogs and protects noses, paws and claws.
Where mesh is used, consideration may be given to double-
skinning (i.e. using two mesh panels with a gap in between)
to ensure safety and prevent injury.
g) When a dog poses a health and safety risk to other dogs,
he or she must be kept in a kennel with solid partition walls.
i) Flooring must be of a non-slip, urine-resistant material.
It must be laid in a way and at a fall that avoids the pooling
of liquids. Slatted or wire mesh floors must not be used.