Terra Firma member and licensing specialist Scott Blair has taken to the world of blogging as part of National Licensing Week. The annual event run by the Institute of Licensing which promotes excellence in licensing throughout the UK, aims to highlight the role that licensing law has in our daily lives. 

Scott was asked to contribute by offering comment on an area close to his own personal interests - the world of canine welfare.  In his blog Scott provides an overview of Scottish Government reform proposals on the law regarding breeding of dogs.  The reforms aim to bring the law into line with modern thinking and to tackle those breeders who put profit before canine welfare.  Scott expresses concern that proposals may not go far enough unless Scotland, like England, also introduces a version of Lucy’s Law which would make it illegal to buy a puppy from other than a licensed breeder or animal rehoming centre.

Scott said: “I was honoured to be asked to add to the current discussion on improving the welfare of dogs and puppies. As someone whose life has been hugely enriched by my own canine companion, I feel strongly that I should use my legal knowledge and skills to give something back and to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

“In writing this blog for this important week in the licensing world, I hope to help further publicise the need for a robust package of measures to tackle both those who put profit before freedom from suffering, and those who support the illegal trade in puppies by buying from such people."