Douglas, Isle of Man – A new set of laws aimed at protecting pets and ensuring their well-being is set to be enacted next month. The Animal Welfare Act will expand the scope of animal welfare regulations to include domestic pets such as cats, dogs, and other animals, requiring owners to take responsibility for their care. Previously, only the treatment of livestock was covered under existing provisions.

Minister for the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture, Clare Barer, emphasized that the new laws will have a significant impact on animal welfare on the island. The regulations, approved by politicians during the May session of parliament, outline guidelines for handling animal welfare complaints and investigations.

Under these new rules, complaints that are not addressed within six months will be removed from the record, while legitimate complaints will be kept on file for three years. Unfounded complaints will be dismissed within a week to prevent undue burden on owners. In addition to owners’ responsibility for their pets’ well-being, the laws also introduce measures to prosecute individuals who neglect their duty of care, with a set of animal welfare codes to guide pet owners in making informed decisions and providing suitable care for their animals.

Chief Veterinary Officer Amy Beckett highlighted that the guidelines cover various aspects of caring for pets, including providing a proper living environment, appropriate diet, and preventive measures against pain, injury, and disease. While the protection of wild and feral animals falls under existing wildlife and cruelty acts, the revisions in the new laws increase penalties for cases of animal cruelty to a maximum of five years in prison, an unlimited fine, or both.

The amendments aim to strengthen animal welfare and combat cruelty on the Isle of Man, reflecting a growing awareness and commitment to safeguarding the well-being of all animals in the region. With the implementation of these stricter regulations and penalties, it is hoped that pet owners will prioritize the welfare of their animals and adhere to the guidelines provided in the animal welfare codes.