Licences may be required for dog walkers in future

Dog walkers, pet sitters and groomers may need to be licensed under future proposals from the States.

The Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure (E&I) wants owners of animal care businesses to contact the States Veterinary Officers so that they can gather opinions.

It said licensing protects animal welfare and can give consumers "confidence in choosing animal care services".

Businesses such as pet shops, boarding kennels, riding stables and farriers are already eligible for licensing by the States under the 2012 Animal Welfare (Guernsey) Ordinance.

Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, President of the Committee for E&I, said: "Our licensing system is how we can ensure that animal welfare standards are met so our licensing system needs to keep pace with the current context of animal enterprises on-island.

"We're also keen that any expansion of our licensing system is phased in, allowing plenty of time for potential licensees to prepare."

Ms de Sausmarez encouraged "anyone with an interest in the area" to take part in the survey when it is published as "feedback would help to shape the proposals".

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