Ombudswoman urges unified rules for pet breeding facilities

Latvia’s ombudswoman has asked the Cabinet of Ministers to develop a unified legal framework for establishing and supervising pet breeding facilities by December 1, LSM reported.

Karina Palkova said the lack of clear rules leaves people living near breeding facilities exposed to disruptive noise and unpleasant smells that can affect their safety, peace and health at home.

Animal shelters and pet hotels have regulated and strict registration and operating procedures. However, lawmakers have not established specific requirements for the registration and operation of breeding facilities in relation to residents’ right to a favourable living environment.

“This issue is not only about keeping animals or commercial activity. The operation of an animal breeding facility cannot be more important than a person’s right to peace and safety in their home,” Palkova said.

Latvia’s Animal Protection Law requires animal owners to ensure that their animals do not disturb or endanger people or other animals. Owners can currently be held responsible for breaches of animal welfare requirements.

When barking, howling or smells caused by an animal are not linked to a breach of welfare requirements, the owner should face administrative liability for disturbing public order. In practice, however, this procedure is not applied when the disturbance is caused by animals kept at pet breeding facilities.

Palkova said clear and unified rules would benefit residents, animal owners and breeders, as well as state and municipal institutions. The rules would clarify residents’ rights and their options for protecting their right to a peaceful and health-friendly living environment.

They would also help protect children’s best interests when animal keeping significantly affects a family’s daily living conditions.