Paws For a Vote

That the Parliament notes the Scottish SPCA’s animal welfare manifesto, Paws for a Vote; believes that Scotland after devolution is a better place for animals; commends the passing of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 for its role in protecting animals from pain, suffering and abuse but notes with regret that the Scottish SPCA investigated 8,000 allegations of animal cruelty and neglect in 2005, and believes that the Parliament must continue to show commitment to animal welfare and that, in accordance with Paws for a Vote, there should be a statutory licensing scheme for animal sanctuaries and livery yards, licensing for puppy dealers, a mandatory dog registration scheme and the re-establishment of rural abattoirs across Scotland.