JSPCA PRESS RELEASE

February 2007  

ANIMAL WELFARE (JERSEY) LAW 2004 COMES INTO FORCE ON 1ST FEBRUARY 2007

Finally, the long awaited new Animal Welfare (Jersey) Law 2004, has been given an Appointed Day Act and will come into force on 1st February 2007.

The new Animal Welfare (Jersey) Law 2004 is much more comprehensive than its predecessor, the Protection of Animals (Jersey) Law 1980, and it is hoped that this new Legislation will transform the husbandry standards and living conditions of Jersey’s animals, ultimately improving their health, welfare and well being.

Under this new Law, establishments such as pet shops, kennels, catteries and animal sanctuaries will need a licence to operate.  Failure to comply will result in fines.  All animals, including farmed animals, domestic pets and wild animal and birds will be protected by this new legislation which was passed in the Sates of Jersey in 2004.  

JSPCA Animals' Shelter President, Mr Nick Le Blampied, commented that the Law had taken 10 years of hard work to bring about.  He said "at last Jersey can count itself as a 21st Century country which ensures that its citizens take their responsibilities for animal welfare in a manner befitting Jersey's standing in the International community".

This new Animal Welfare (Jersey) Law 2004 is designed to promote the welfare of animals and the prevention of suffering by animals in Jersey. In addition this Law will regulate the keeping and use of animals and allow the licensing of certain types of businesses involved in keeping and/or caring for animals.

ENDS