Illegal breeding of domestic animals : a comparative study of local and foreign legislation with a view to propose amendments and improvements

Abstract

Animals are often helpless in the face of society, and they are frequently exploited for human benefit. The breeding of domestic animals, such as cats and dogs, is a common practice worldwide, and it has been on the rise in recent years due to increased demand for designer and pedigree pets. However, many breeders operate without a license, breeding and selling their domestic animals without the protection of the law for these vulnerable animals. This situation negatively impacts the animals' health, welfare, and quality of life, as they are often denied the basic requirements that any animal needs to thrive. This dissertation focuses specifically on dogs and cats as domestic animals, as they are the most common household pets and are therefore most affected by the phenomenon of illegal breeding. The dissertation aims to analyse the current local breeding laws under the Animal Welfare Act and the Electronic Identification of Dogs Regulation. Additionally, it will compare these laws with those found in the European Union regulations and United Kingdom statutes. Maltese case law, as well as case law from the United Kingdom, will be assessed to supplement the analysis. Through this process, one will be able to differentiate between the three legal frameworks and propose new Maltese legislation that encompasses crucial elements required to safeguard the basic welfare needs of bred animals. The primary goal is to highlight the current injustices that unlicensed breeding inflicts upon these animals, which Maltese law does not address, and suggest amendments to rectify these issues.