AQW 30439/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 05/09/2025
Answered On Date: 10/09/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he intends to consult with veterinary and animal-welfare organisations to develop standards for therapy or emotional-support animals.

Answer:

At present, I have no plans to introduce standards specifically for therapy or emotional support animals. The Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that establishes minimum welfare requirements for all animals in every context. To date, I have not received any evidence indicating a necessity for distinct standards relating to therapy or emotional support dogs.