The Ministry for Primary Industries says it is proposing regulations to clarify the rules for significant surgical procedures on a wide range of animals.

Deputy Director General for regulation and assurance, Bryan Wilson, says it’s essential that procedures on animals be carried out by the right people with the right skills and care, to ensure the well-being of animals.

“We are proposing clearer rules about who can carry out certain procedures on animals and how they must be done," he says.

“We want to hear from people who work with and care for animals, and anyone else who is interested in animal welfare regulations.”

Public consultation has opened on proposed regulations under the Animal Welfare Act 1999. Submissions close on Wednesday, 24 July 2019.  MPI says there will also be six public meetings around the country in late June and early July.

Information on the consultation process and how to make a submission is available here.