How it Started.... The Origins of the Group

DEFRA says:

"The RSPCA cannot issue formal improvement notices under the Act. They do, and will continue to, issue their own informal ‘improvement notices’. These are not formal notices under the Act and have no power in law."

DEFRA website Here

Arrested ?.........We know it happens, be prepared- read this.

Animal owners should be aware that if during an RSPCA prosecution they give permission for their vet to discuss their animals with the RSPCA or the policeman seizing them, they are waiving all future rights to client privilege during pending court proceedings.

This becomes important if your vet is ( or later becomes as a result of RSPCA involvement) critical in any way.

It is of use to the RSPCA in some cases where the owner's vet examined the animals but is not being called for the defence, with a view to issuing a witness summons to the vet.

If the accused has waived their right to confidentiality the vet can then disclose to the prosecution any adverse advice or reports that would otherwise have remained unseen, and give evidence against the defendant.

The answer is:

1. Dont allow your vet to talk to the RSPCA or the police until you have a report in writing ( possibly handwritten on the day) that you know is favourable to you.
2. Wherever possible your vet should not disclose or say anything that has not been specifically cleared by your solicitor.

New powers for RSPCA in England regarding Commercial Establishments

Please note that we will be updating the advice given on these pages as
soon as we have assessed the full implications of this.

Tape Recording a Conversation or Telephone Call

Is it Legal?

All the articles on this main page are downloadable as Word Documents from here

and the
Proposed Animal Welfare Bill.

Visit the Campaign for change in the RSPCA page.

For more background information visit the RSPCA Animadversion Site