Author Archives: Chris O'Brien

RSPCA welcome for Welsh Govt’s dog breeding and local government funding announcement

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RSPCA Cymru has warmly welcomed confirmation from the Welsh Government that the country’s dog breeding regulations are to be revisited.

This follows a report published by the Animal Health and Welfare Framework Group on the issue of dog breeding – including input from the RSPCA.

At present, anyone with three or more breeding bitches meeting certain conditions must be licensed – but welfare issues and poor breeding practices persist in Wales, as exposed by a recent BBC documentary.

The … Continue reading…

Man handed suspended jail term after interfering with West Wales badger sett

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A Tonypandy man has been handed a suspended jail sentence and banned from keeping animals after admitting interference with a badger sett. 

Matthew Howell Jones, 38, of Jones Street, also admitted failing to get urgent veterinary treatment for his dog, with the black terrier struggling with “very worrying” injuries that vets say are consistent with an encounter with a badger, or other wild animal.

His dog had alopecia and skin lesions, caused by sarcoptic mange – with a wound to … Continue reading…

RSPCA delight as circus ban one step closer following unanimous Senedd vote

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Members of the Senedd have unanimously backed the general principles of a law which will ban the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in Wales. 

A vote took place on the floor of the Welsh Parliament yesterday evening (7 January), with all Members in favour – meaning a ban on the “out-dated practice” draws ever nearer.

RSPCA Cymru has long led the campaign to outlaw the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in Wales – with the country … Continue reading…

RSPCA and firefighters team up to rescue heron from fishing litter threat

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A heron had a lucky escape after being found hanging by his wing, caught by fishing line, in Llansamlet.

RSPCA Cymru has issued a reminder about the dangers of fishing litter to wildlife, after teaming-up with firefighters to rescue the distressed bird.

The animal welfare charity was alerted after the heron was spotted on Fendrod Lake on Monday (16 December).

Deep waters and access challenges mean the RSPCA had to enlist the support of the Mid and West Wales  Wales … Continue reading…

Wrexham becomes North Wales’ first council to back fireworks action after RSPCA calls

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Wrexham County Borough Council has become North Wales’ first local authority to formally back RSPCA plans to mitigate the risks posed by fireworks to animals in the local area.

Councillors backed a host of measures on Wednesday (18 December) – which will help ensure pet owners in the local area can be prepared for the loud bangs associated with fireworks, while also promoting their responsible use, and raising awareness.

Wrexham’s action follows recent steps taken by Neath Port Talbot Council … Continue reading…