Community invited to have their say on animal welfare protections
Eastbourne Borough Council is inviting people, businesses and community groups to share their views on a new draft Animal Welfare Licensing Policy.
The draft policy outlines how the council plans to fulfil its responsibilities under animal welfare regulations and sets out the criteria used to decide whether a new applicant or existing licence holder is suitable to receive a licence or have it renewed.
The proposed framework is designed to ensure that the highest welfare standards are upheld including providing animals with a suitable environment and diet, the ability for them to exhibit normal behaviour patterns and be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare said: "As a local animal welfare charity covering East and West Sussex, the centre sees first-hand the impact on animals who have sadly experienced poor welfare. Rescue centres like Raystede have to spend a lot of time, care and money on nursing these animals back to health - not only physically, but mentally and emotionally - before finding them a new home or providing them with sanctuary at Raystede.
The charity welcomes the focus on the 5 animal welfare needs throughout the policy and the emphasis on having suitably qualified Inspectors is something that we constantly demand as a sector. We would also be keen to see licensing expanded to include welfare organisations in the future.
As well as rescuing, rehoming, rehabilitating and providing sanctuary to animals in need, Raystede's mission is to educate people about good animal welfare and the prevention of poor animal welfare so this policy very much aligns with the charity's goals and values.
Raystede is pleased to support the policy and would encourage businesses and residents in the local community to take part in the consultation and add their voices and support to the very important matter of understanding and providing good animal welfare."
Councillor Kathy Ballard, Cabinet Member for Community Safety, said: "This new draft policy is a vital step in ensuring the welfare and protection of all animals within our communities. We are committed to maintaining the best possible animal welfare standards and this consultation is an opportunity for the public to help us shape a policy that reflects the values of our residents and businesses. We urge everyone to participate and make their voice heard."
The full draft policy can be reviewed and feedback submitted through the online survey at www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk/Animal-Welfare-Licensing-Consultation
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