The Animal Welfare Act was passed in 2006 and represents the most significant change to animal welfare law in nearly a century. Under this Act owners have a legal duty to meet the five welfare needs of their pets and whilst in our care we as Dog Groomers also share the same responsibility. So, what are the "FIVE NEEDS", and do we make sure they are met.

1. THE NEED FOR A SUITABLE ENVIRONMENT.

You need to make sure your pet has a suitable place to live, providing an appropriate environment, shelter and resting area. If a animal does not have a secure shelter from rain, wind or bad weather or has no bedding, or the wrong kind of bedding, the person responsible for the animal is failing to comply with its need.

Whilst in our care, we will provide a safe, clean and secure environment with suitable ventilation.

2. THE NEED FOR A SUITABLE DIET.

You need to make sure your pet has the appropriate diet to maintain full health and vigour as well as the provision of fresh water at all times. If you provide a animal with food but its not the correct food for their needs, you are failing to meet this need. You may also be failing to meet this need if you provide food which makes a animal obese

Whilst in our care, we will ensure clean, fresh water is always available.

3. THE NEED TO EXHIBIT NORMAL BEHAVIOUR PATTERNS.

This need points to the provision of sufficient space, proper facilities and allowing your pet to exhibit behaviours which are as close as possible to those it would exhibit in the wild. for example, You need to ensure your pet has plenty of opportunity to rest undisturbed when needed, and to play with other friendly dogs or people. they must get the exercise they need to be fit, active and stimulated and opportunity for toileting when required.

Whilst in our care, we make sure dogs have regular toilet breaks and space to exercise.

4.THE NEED TO BE HOUSED WITH, OR APART FROM, OTHER ANIMALS.

You have a responsibility to make sure your pet has the company it needs, including the opportunity to spend time with other dogs and people or kept away from animals that they are fearful of or can lead to aggression You should ensure no pets are left alone for long periods of time or long enough for them to become stressed.

At Scruffy 2 Fluffy Dog Grooming School, we work on a one to one basis, so your pet is never left alone or housed with other animals they are familiar with.

5. THE NEED TO BE PROTECTED FROM PAIN, SUFFERING, INJURY OR DISEASE.

You need to ensure that pain, disease or injury are prevented or that if they are not preventable, that any pain, disease or injury is quickly diagnosed and treated.

if you are responsible for a animal and its in pain and you chose to ignore it, and fail to seek treatment you are neglecting the welfare of the animal, and you are breaking the law.

At Scruffy 2 Fluffy Dog Grooming School we undertake a health check on each dog and safe handling of animals that enter our salon. We maintain a clean salon and ensure all our equipment is PAT Tested. We also keep a fully stocked First Aid kit and have completed training in Animal First Aid.

ALL Dog Owners have a duty of care and are required by law to ensure the welfare needs of their animals are met.