THREAD.

Today we launched our Dog and Animal Welfare Manifesto.

The manifesto was launched by former SNP Activist Dog, “Poppy” who is the latest in a string of SNP defections who are now backing Alex Salmond’s ALBA Party on the list.

#DogsOfALBA. https://www.albaparty.org/dogs-for-alba 

#Scotland is a country of animal lovers. In Scotland, over half a million dogs provide companionship to over one-fifth of the population.

ALBA agrees with charities that have called on a new @ScotGov to take more action to better protect the welfare of animals, including dogs.

In the new Scottish Parliament, as part of an independence #SuperMajority, ALBA will support the following measures for animals and dogs.

Strengthen legislation against illegal puppy imports

ALBA supports strengthening of pet travel legislation to clamp down on illegal puppy smuggling by raising the age at which puppies can enter the country.

Boost the veterinary workforce

ALBA agrees that Vets play a vital role in trade, protecting public health, food safety & animal health & welfare.
ALBA support calls for increased funding for veterinary school places and attractive salaries for vets undertaking government work

Ban the import of dogs with cropped ears

While illegal to crop in the UK, it is not illegal to sell ear-cropped dogs, import them, or take dogs abroad to be cropped. ALBA will close these loopholes and end the trend in ear-cropped dogs for good.

Ban aversive training devices and shock collars

Reward-based training is not only the most effective training method, it also protects animals from any pain or suffering.

ALBA supports a complete ban on the sale and use of electric shock collars for dogs and cats.

Tighten fireworks regulations

Fireworks impact the health and welfare of animals, humans, & our environment.

ALBA supports the recommendations of the Fireworks Review Group, including introducing no-firework zones & limit the days of the year people can set off fireworks.

Animal welfare on the national curriculum

It is essential children learn about the welfare needs & the concept of duty of care to ensure animals have good health, welfare & a life worth living.

ALBA supports embedding animal welfare into the school curriculum.

Closing the loophole to ensure a ban on Fox hunting in Scotland

ALBA shares the concerns of animal welfare charities that this results in fox hunts continuing in Scotland.

ALBA will move to close any loopholes to ensure the ban of fox hunting in Scotland.

Establish a NATIONAL REGISTER FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY

Every year, there are cases where individuals are prosecuted for breaking a ban on owning animals.

Many people who are banned move addresses, which makes it impossible to monitor a ban and ensure it is respected.

Right to the companionship of a pet

Animals can be of huge benefit to mental health & wellbeing, supporting those who feel lonely & isolated.

ALBA supports an initiative that provides all landlords across Scotland with guidance on how to support pet friendly accommodation.

Better support for animal welfare charities

ALBA recognises the pandemic has had an adverse impact on the operation of animal welfare charities.

ALBA believes that the @ScotGov should work with animal welfare charities & provide appropriate funding to aid in their recovery.