DISCLAIMER:

This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.

Simple terms explainer:

Councils must enforce animal health and welfare law to ensure that animals are treated humanely and protected from harm. This involves investigating complaints, carrying out inspections, and taking action where animals are found to be suffering or kept in poor conditions. By enforcing these standards, councils help safeguard animal welfare, promote responsible ownership, and maintain public confidence in animal care practices.

Legal status

Statutory


Duty category

Environmental health


Duty type

Compliance


Social determinant of health

Neighbourhood and environment

Emerging policy and legislation


2

Bodies with shared interest

Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA)
Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland (SCOTSS)

Standards and frameworks


1