“Lucy’s Law” set to be in motion as Minister announces next steps towards introducing new rules on selling and supplying puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland

The Minister confirmed that officials will now take forward legislation requiring anyone selling or supplying puppies, and anyone selling kittens, under six months old, to register with their local council. Those registered will have to comply with a series of set conditions.

A key requirement will be the introduction of “Lucy’s Law”, which will ban the third-party sale of puppies and kittens. Under the new rules, anyone selling puppies or kittens in Northern Ireland must have bred the animals themselves.

Minister Muir said: “I am delighted to announce that Northern Ireland will soon have its own version of Lucy’s Law, ensuring that we are giving the same protections to puppies and kittens that exist in other parts of the UK.

“I want owners to have confidence that their new pets have been cared to the high standards of welfare that all animals deserve. This ban on the third-party sale of puppies and kittens, as well as accompanying mandatory registration for sellers and suppliers, will lead to better outcomes for the animals, reducing the risk of disease and improving socialisation and habituation. Purchasing directly from a breeder helps to avoid early separation from the mother, and ultimately, will see more puppies and kittens raised in responsible, caring environments.

“It is clear from the consultation that there is overwhelming support for this vital animal welfare intervention in our society, am I am grateful to those who took the time to respond to the consultation and voiced their views. I look forward to seeing this key commitment from my Animal Welfare Pathway 2025-27 delivered.”

The Minister concluded: “It is anticipated that legislation will be made this autumn, and I have asked that my officials work closely with local councils, who play a vital role in the enforcement of legislation relating to companion animals, in planning for its effective implementation.

“Improving animal welfare is close to my heart as Minister and Lucy’s Law is about seeing more of our puppies and kittens being given the best start in life.”

Laura Orr, Regional Public Affairs Officer at Dogs Trust and Chair of Northern Ireland Companion Animal Welfare Group (NICAWG) said: “We welcome DAERA’s proposals following the consultation on the sale and supply of puppies and kittens. NICAWG supports the recommendations, which will require sellers and suppliers of puppies, and sellers of kittens, under six months of age, to register with their local council and for a register of those sellers to be publicly accessible.

“We fully support this proposed ban on the third-party sale of puppies and kittens. Buying directly from breeders offers greater protection for the animals, and helps tackle irresponsible breeding and selling, which is something NICAWG have been campaigning on for many years. We believe robust implementation of the legislation across council areas will be critical, but will lead to improved animal welfare standards for companion animals in Northern Ireland, which is fantastic news.”