Pet Insurance Ireland is pleased to see that a greyhound breeding bill has been agreed by the Cabinet.

Legislation that will hopefully improve the welfare of animals should be welcomed.

The Irish Times reports that the Welfare of Greyhounds Bill 2010 will cut the amount of times a dog can breed to a maximum of six, hoping to stop bitches having to have an excessive amount of litters. The Bill will also seek to set a minimum breeding age of fifthteen months.

Anyone breaking the proposed law might be hit with a fine of up to €5,000 and six month prison sentence.

One aspect that we worry could be open to abuse is is that while a female should usually have no more than six litters, an additional litters may be bred in such cases where a vet gives authorisation.

We heavilly welcome new powers to inspect establishments appointed by local authorities, the Irish Greyhound Board and the Irish Coursing Club.

Fianna Fáil Christy O’Sullivan and Máire Hoctor of Tipperary North lobbied for the Hunting Association of Ireland to be exempt from the dog breeding legislation, but this was thankfully not permitted.

Click here to visit the Orchard Greyhound Sanctuary.com.

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