Response 219042683

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Penalties

Are the proposed maximum penalties for animal welfare offences set at the right level to act as a deterrent?

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With new studies being done linking animal abuse to underlying psychotic type issues, I don't think current sentencing does enough to punish perpetrators of animal violence.
I also think it is crucial you relook at the current laws to ensure it covers greyhound welfare as these dogs do not have the same welfare rights as other breeds. If they did, the greyhound racing industry would be forced to make rapid and significance improvements to their industry. Currently this industry including trainers, tracks, race tracks and the governing body carry out and allow to freely continue the systemic abuse of greyhounds with absolutely no recourse.

Are the proposed maximum penalties for wildlife offences set at the right level to act as a deterrent?

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No. There are no resources to police this, sentencing is poor at best and no where the near the maximum in most cases so current penalties are no deterrent. Particularly in the Highlands etc where big hunting and shooting industries dominate the landscape and often seem to go about business undeterred.. I mean, if you are a tenant farmer and see something illegal, would you soeka out for fear of losing your home and livelihood..

Can you give specific examples where existing maximum penalties have been insufficient?

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Next to no prosecutions in relation to abuse and murder of greyhounds in the racing industry.

Redacted text, Scottish gamekeeper guilty of multiple killings of protected species.

Do the proposals on wildlife penalties fully address the recommendations of the Poustie review on penalties?

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An improvement but so much more can be done

New powers for enforcement agencies without a Court Order

Are the proposals to allow enforcement agencies to intervene without a need for a court order necessary and appropriate?

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Provided those with power cannot mistreat this power, then yes, I agree. It should make the safeguarding of animals quicker but may be open to more subjective interpretations of when to intervene

What impact will the proposals have on: local authorities; animal welfare agencies, sanctuaries and rehoming centres; commercial businesses, individuals and; the welfare of different types of animal?

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Not enough resources already so in reality these changes will be tough to make a difference

Compensation & Fixed Penalty Notices

Are the proposals to pay compensation to an owner necessary and appropriate?

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If someone is mistreating the animal, why do they have a right to compensation? Surely they should be fined sums of money to cover the costs of the recovering agencies expenses in relation to the rescue and rehabilitation of that animal especially if is not voluntarily surrendered.

Will Fixed Penalty Notices act as a deterrent and how should they be used to maximise their positive impact on animal welfare?

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No. As before, people who abuse animals have been shown to have underlying mental health issues.. If you believe it is okay to smash a dogs head in or torment a cat etc, why would u care about a penalty notice..