A CRUSADE by a Port Glasgow woman on animal care services has brought about the launch of a nationwide Scottish Government consultation on the matter. 

Christina O'Donnell, who runs Pawsitively Purrfect, has been campaigning for stricter regulation across pet grooming, walking and boarding businesses for many years. 

Ms O'Donnell wants to see a more formal licensing scheme introduced, along with regular monitoring of services, amid numerous cases of animals being maimed. 

The Scottish Government consultation - Licensing of activities involving animals - covers dog walking businesses, dog grooming services, canine fertility services, and pet accommodation. 

READ MORE: Demands for stricter regulation in pet grooming industry

It says licensing is being considered to improve animal welfare standards which will ensure consistency across the sector. 

Ms O'Donnell says she is thrilled that her years of lobbying have led to the first step in what could be a very important development for Scotland. 

She told the Telegraph: "This industry is booming and at this point, there's still no regulation. 

"Anyone can pick up a pair of scissors and claim that they're a dog groomer. 

"It has to stop.

"There's no regulation in the rest of the UK so Scotland could really lead the way on this."

Inverclyde MSP Stuart McMillan has continually supported Ms O'Donnell in her campaigning activity and has taken her concerns to Holyrood. 

Last year, Mr McMillan brought Mairi Gougeon, cabinet Secretary for rural affairs, land reform and islands, to meet with Ms O'Donnell and discuss her concerns. 

Mr McMillan said the consultation is a 'huge step forward' in the journey towards new legislation being introduced. 

He added: "I'm really pleased that Christina raised these issues with me. 

"It's fantastic that potential legislation could be created thanks to the efforts of a business person from Port Glasgow. 

"This is the first step in a very important process and we want people to share their views in this consultation."

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Ms O'Donnell, who offers iPET qualifications, said introducing apprenticeships in pet grooming would bring people into the industry in the correct way and help regulate the services offered.  

She added: "I don't think this industry should be any different from hairdressing.

"People must gain qualifications but experience must also be taken into account. 

"We need more protection for animals and for people working in the industry."

Responses to the consultation can be submitted until September 26. 

To view the consultation visit https://consult.gov.scot/agriculture-and-rural-economy/licensing-of-activities-involving-animals/