‘OVERWHELMING public support’ has been received for plans backed by Inverclyde’s MSP to introduce new regulations on the pet care industry.
A Scottish Government review of responses to a recent consultation on the proposals revealed that 89.1 per cent were in favor of a licensing scheme for commercial dog walkers, while 82.2 per cent gave the thumbs up to similar reviews for dog groomers.
Having worked with Port Glasgow business owner Christina O’Donnell on the issue since 2022, SNP MP Stuart McMillan welcomed the latest update on the initiative, which aims to improve animal welfare and ensure better recognition for ‘skilled, professional industry’.
The MSP said: “I am delighted that the consultation review supports what the industry and pet owners have been saying: we need improved licensing and regulation of pet services in Scotland.
“People consider their pets a member of the family, so just like they love them, they want to make sure the services they use – whether that’s groomers, animal boarders or walkers – are quality-checked and insured .
READ MORE: Demands for stricter regulation of the pet grooming industry
“However, the law as it currently stands means that many people working in this sector do so with little or no relevant experience or qualifications.”
Mr McMillan said the move could help reduce the number of ‘horror stories’ about animals dying or being seriously harmed at the hands of ‘improper’ pet groomers, and dangerous incident that occurs while walking the dog.
Christina, who runs Pawsitively Purrfect Pet Services and Training Academy in Newark Street, said she was grateful for the politician’s efforts to keep the matter on the Scottish Government’s agenda.
He added: “This is good news for the animals, their owners, and for the industry itself.”
