Scotland just decided that they are going to outlaw the breeding of "designer" animals.
The Scottish Government opened a consultation on September 7th that will consider the public's opinions and knowledge about the breeding practices of dogs, cats, and rabbits. Once the consultation closes on November 30th, the government plans to enact stricter licensing regulations on the breeding of such animals.
The new licensing is meant to prohibit breeding practices that produce pets with a predisposition for certain genetic conditions.
Often, these types of pets are considered "designer" pets as they are bred specifically to appeal to buyers who are looking for specific features in their animals.
One such breed that will be affected by Scotland's upcoming licensing change is the Scottish fold cat. These cats cannot form cartilage, which causes long term arthritis. The Scottish fold cat is popular amongst celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran.
Swift has two Scottish fold cats named Olivia Benson and Meredith Grey.
Sheeran also has two, named Calippo and Dorito. They even have their own Instagram — @thewibbles.
Other breeds affected by the impending law are the munchkin cat which has disproportionately short legs, such as Albert the baby cat.
Another affected animal is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, whose small skull compresses the brain and affects the spinal cord. Check out Julianne Houghs two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
Lastly French and English bulldogs, who experience breathing problems, are expected to be more regulated with the new legislation. Check out Reese Witherspoon's Frenchie.
But despite the fact that these breeds are the beloved pets of many humans, a lot of people think Scotland's new law is on the right track.
"An excellent IDEA!"
Hopefully people will see this as a protection of their beloved animals, and not an attack on people who own designer pets.
H/T: Scotsman, Scottish Government
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@BillAckman/Twitter