Mandate Imposes Guidelines for Potential Dog Owners in New Legislation
Getting a pup for the first time can be a steep learning curve, even if you've had pets before or grew up around dogs. It's a whole new ball game having a furry friend of your own. That's why Scottish politicians are drafting a guide for new dog owners, along with the passage of the Welfare of Dogs Bill.
This bill aims to make sure folks understand the amount of dedication it takes to be a dog owner - the Scottish government will create a checklist, asking potential dog parents if they've considered factors like time, space, and money. A dog needs plenty of exercise, high-quality chow, and lots of affection.
Upon acquiring a puppy, both the new owner and the seller would sign a certificate, demonstrating their understanding of the commitment involved.
Christine Grahame, an SNP MSP, introduced the Welfare of Dogs Bill after pressing for changes for years. Although she first proposed a similar bill in 2018, it didn't make it through Parliament, impacted heavily by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Grahame frequently visits the Edinburgh Dog & Cat Home, and the home's CEO, Lindsay Fyffe-Jardine, told the BBC about rash decisions made when it comes to obtaining a dog. Jardine stated, "It's as simple to grab a bit of cereal from the supermarket as it is to get a dog from plenty of places. The reality isn't always that people stop to think, 'Can I afford this dog? Can I fit them into my life?' Because it's a massive commitment."
The guide the government will produce thanks to Grahame's bill aims to get people to ask themselves these questions before they get a dog. Does the dog breed suit the new owner? Will they have enough time to exercise the dog regularly? Can they commit to caring for the pup their entire life?
It's not about getting a license to have a dog or a legally binding document. Rather, it's about making people think hard about whether they're ready for the commitment of a new dog.
A 28-page code of practice for dog parents already exists, dating back to 2010 as part of broader animal welfare reforms. However, as Grahame mentions, not many dog owners will have read it, making a more concise code that must be signed upon acquiring the animal more likely to make people consider the commitment they're making.
Ready to welcome a dog into your life? Familiarize yourself with local dog ownership laws. Here's a rundown of first-time dog owner tips, along with the top 32 mistakes new dog owners should avoid.
- A dog needs plenty of exercise, high-quality food, and lots of affection, making pet ownership a significant lifestyle change.
- The Scottish government is creating a checklist for potential dog parents, asking them to consider factors like time, space, and money before acquiring a pup.
- Upon adopting a puppy, both the new owner and the seller would sign a certificate, symbolizing their understanding of the commitment involved in pet ownership.
- The guide the government will produce aims to encourage potential dog owners to ask themselves questions such as, does the dog breed suit their lifestyle, will they have enough time to care for the dog, and can they commit to the pup for its entire life.
