Current status: Answered by Roseanna Cunningham on 22 December 2016
To ask the Scottish Government what discussions it has had with animal charities regarding gifting animals at Christmas, and what action it is taking to educate the public on this issue.
The Scottish Government has discussed animal welfare with stakeholder organisations throughout 2016, but there have been no specific discussions on the gifting of animals at Christmas. Independent animal charities, such as the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Dogs Trust, have issued a seasonal reminder that pets are not suitable gifts.
The Scottish Government endorses the view that owning an animal entails a lifetime welfare commitment and that all animals should go to permanent, loving homes.