As from 6 April 2007 the Animal Welfare Act 2006
comes in to force
and overhauls the pet abuse laws in England and Wales
for the first time in 94 years.

It will brings in tougher penalties for neglect and cruelty
including fines of up to £20,000,
a maximum jail term of 51 weeks and a lifetime ban
on some owners keeping pets.

The new legislation introduces a welfare offence
for the first time and enforcers such as the RSPCA
will be given more powers to intervene where they suspect
a pet is being neglected.
The new welfare offence is a 'duty of care' on pet owners
to provide for their animals
basic needs such as adequate food and water,
veterinary treatment and an appropriate environment
in which to live.
RSPCA Inspectors will now be able to act more readily
in cases of neglect, mistreatment and cruelty.

The complete act can be downloaded
as a PDF by - 

with associated explanatory notes -