‘Island is still subject to animal abuse’

In response to updated animal welfare legislation proposed this week, GSPCA manager Steve Byrne has said that the changes highlighted existing problems and will provide better protection for animals.

‘At the GSPCA we work closely with the States Vet and Guernsey authorities,’ he said. ‘In recent years we have seen prosecutions and investigations from cruelty to reptiles to illegally transported puppies.

'One of the worst cases we have seen in recent years was a bearded dragon and snakes that had been left for weeks without care.’

In 2016, two corn snakes, a royal python and a bearded dragon were treated at the GSPCA after being found in the worst condition the charity had ever seen. At the time, Mr Byrne said that in his 20 years working in animal welfare, he had never seen such emaciation in living pet reptiles.

Another incident took place in 2015 when 25 dogs were imported illegally into the island from Slovakia and were temporarily housed at the GSPCA.

One of the proposed changes is to authorise powers of entry and inspection and related powers under the 2012 Animal Welfare Ordinance to be exercises in relation to non-dwelling premises at any time, without the need for prior notice in writing in non-emergency situations.

‘When investigating welfare concerns, we face a wide range of challenges and any improvements to our legislation are hugely welcomed,’ said Mr Byrne.

‘Sadly we do occasionally see some horrendous sights that require robust legislation to help rescue those animals that are suffering.

'Thankfully many of the welfare concerns we look into can be resolved with education and advice, but there are those serious circumstances where we need to escalate and work with our authorities and legislation.

'151 years ago the GSPCA was set up and although we don’t see animals worked like they were in the 1800’s, we do still investigate concerns in domestic environments, farm animals and even disturbing wild animals, to using cruel capture devices.’