4. What assessment has the Government made of the impact on animal welfare of the inability of people on low incomes to pay for pet food and veterinary fees? OQ57920

We acknowledge the issue raised in relation to costs associated with responsible pet ownership for those on low incomes. Officials regularly discuss this issue with our third sector partners, both to monitor the situation and see if more can be done to publicise the support they offer.

Thank you, Minister. Recently, I visited a foodbank in my region that is increasingly receiving requests from individuals and families that they support for pet food. The manager shared with me that many were thinking of getting rid of their pets because they were concerned that they couldn't afford to feed them because of the cost-of-living crisis, and neither would they be able to pay veterinary fees. As anyone who's owned a pet will know, they are often considered by their owners to be an integral part of the family, and, for those living alone, providing comfort and company, which can be invaluable. How will the Welsh Government therefore ensure that the cost-of-living crisis doesn't impact on animal health and well-being? I don't think that enough is being done at the moment.

Well, unfortunately, you do raise a significant area of concern. Through our Animal Welfare Network Wales and Companion Animal Welfare Group Wales, officials continue to have discussions with third sector organisations such as PDSA, the Dogs Trust and Cats Protection, to monitor the current situation. I am aware, obviously, of many vets who also participate in those discussions and do a great deal. 

I think that it is really important that we continue to highlight the cost of pets. It is a lifelong commitment for the life of that pet. As you say, they are absolutely members of our families. To be faced with the cost-of-living crisis, I can well imagine that foodbanks are receiving requests in the way that you refer to.

You will be aware of our Paws, Prevent, Protect social media campaign, and that's an area where we also continue to highlight the reminder to people of the lifetime costs associated with owning a pet, particularly puppies. I will refer back again to our animal welfare plan, and I think that the partnership that brought that plan forward is really key to the success of ensuring that we do reiterate to people about the cost, but also about how we can help.