What does the ‘duty of care’ mean?
“Duty of care” is a legal phrase which means that someone has an obligation to do something. Prior to the Animal Welfare Act 2006, people only had a duty to ensure that an animal didn’t suffer unnecessarily. The new Act keeps this duty but also imposes a broader duty of care on anyone responsible for an animal to take reasonable steps to ensure that the animal’s needs are met. This means that a person has to look after the animal’s welfare as well as ensure that it does not suffer. The Act says that an animal’s welfare needs include:
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A suitable environment (how it is housed);
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A suitable diet (what it eats and drinks);
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The ability to exhibit normal behaviour patterns;
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Any need it has to be housed with, or apart from, other animals; and
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Protection from pain, suffering, injury and disease.
I’m not really sure what this would mean in practice. Where can I find more information to help me properly care for my pet?
Your vet can give you advice about healthcare and your animal’s needs. However, your first port of call for general information may be a specific club or society for your type of pet. There are also several charities and organisations who may be able to help you with specific questions.
Useful websites
