Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA)
Minister has launched a consultation on
proposals to implement measures on selling and supplying puppies
and kittens, in Northern Ireland.
The proposals include a version of Lucy's Law, which bans the
third-party sale of puppies and kittens. This means that anyone
selling and supplying puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland,
must have bred them themselves.
Proposals also include the introduction of registration
requirements which will improve traceability and transparency,
enabling the public to more easily identify the source and origin
of their puppy or kitten.
Announcing the consultation, Minister Muir said: “I am pleased to
launch a public consultation on proposed measures for selling and
supplying puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland. Animal welfare
is one of my top priorities and these proposals will give puppies
and kittens which are sold in Northern Ireland, additional animal
welfare protections.
“While licensed dog breeding establishments and many responsible
dog and cat owners adhere to ethical practices when selling
puppies and kittens, there are instances where less-responsible
individuals breed these animals in poor welfare conditions. These
young animals can develop health issues and behavioural problems
which may persist throughout their lives. The new owners of these
young animals may be unaware of the true origins of their new
pet, or that their new pet did not get the best start in life.”
The Minister concluded: “This consultation is just one step in my
Animal Welfare Pathway which I announced last month to strengthen
animal welfare in Northern Ireland. I want to ensure that all
animals receive the care and protection they deserve, and I would
encourage everyone to submit their views through this
consultation.”
The consultation closes at 11:59pm on 25 August 2025.
The
document along with details on how to respond.
Notes to editors:
- Minister Muir published The Animal Welfare Pathway -
Advancing Animal Welfare in Northern Ireland 2025-27 last month.
More details at: www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/animal-welfare-pathway-advancing-animal-welfare-northern-ireland-2025-27
