£5,000 fixed fines can be given for horse welfare offences

The introduction of the fines has been welcomed but, as always, effective enforcement of the law will be crucial

- ELEANOR JONES

THE introduction of £5,000 penalty notices for animal welfare offences has been welcomed – but their effectiveness depends on enforcement, and they could be “open to misuse”.

The legislation, under the Animals (Penalty Notices) Act, came into force last month. It allows local authorities to issue fines of up to £5,000 for offences such as keeping animals in “poor living conditions”.

Animal welfare and biosecurity minister Robbie Douglas-Miller said: “Keepers have a duty of care to protect their animals from harm, as well as adhering to biosecurity rules to protect our nation from devastating diseases.