Scottish Government pressed on pet services regulation amid enforcement gaps and public support

The Scottish Government faced renewed scrutiny over its approach to regulating pet services during Portfolio Question Time on 5 November 2025, as MSPs raised concerns about enforcement challenges and the lack of statutory oversight for businesses such as dog walkers, pet groomers, and boarders.

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) led the questioning, referencing a recent parliamentary round-table he hosted with stakeholders including Trading Standards Scotland, Police Scotland, and the Scottish SPCA. He highlighted that “the lack of regulation covering those businesses prohibits the police, trading standards officials or Scottish SPCA officers from being able to act” when complaints arise, and urged the Government to clarify its position following a consultation that showed “overwhelming support from the public for regulation of pet services”.

Responding, Minister Jim Fairlie acknowledged the consultation’s findings but cautioned that “concerns were also expressed about the proportionality and cost of statutory licensing”, particularly given the limited capacity of local authorities to enforce new rules. He confirmed that officials from the Scottish Government’s animal welfare team continue to engage with trading standards officers, but noted that “there have been no discussions about licensing with Police Scotland since the consultation in 2023”.

Fairlie indicated that the Government is now exploring “less onerous and more proportionate approaches, such as registration schemes linked to codes of conduct”, which could deliver similar outcomes without the burden of full licensing. He also reiterated that the immediate priority is to regulate canine fertility businesses, citing “significant animal welfare concerns” in that sector.

The exchange underscores growing political and public pressure for clearer safeguards in the pet services industry, with McMillan urging the next Government to legislate following the upcoming election. While the Scottish Government has not ruled out future licensing, its current stance favours lighter-touch regulation amid fiscal constraints and enforcement limitations.

Sources: Scottish Parliament debate on Animal-related Activities (Licensing Regulations), 5 Nov 2025