The UK government will today launch what it is calling the biggest shake-up of animal welfare laws in a generation, unveiling a strategy that promises stronger protections for pets, farm
livestock and wildlife across England and Wales.
The new Animal Welfare Strategy, due to be published on Monday 22 December, outlines sweeping reforms aimed at ending puppy farming, tightening breeding rules, strengthening farming protections and banning practices officials say cause needless suffering to wild animals.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds described the plans as “the most ambitious animal welfare strategy in a generation,” saying they reflect the public’s strong attachment to animals.
“We’re a nation of animal lovers,” she said. “Our strategy will raise welfare standards for animals in the home, on the farm and in the wild. We’ve already taken action to end puppy smuggling and protect livestock from dog attacks. Now we’re planning to ban caged hens, cruel snares, trail hunting, and curb low-welfare dog breeding.”
End to puppy farming and tougher breeding rules
Central to the strategy is a pledge to stamp out puppy farming — a trade long criticised for breeding dogs in cramped, unsafe conditions that can lead to serious health issues. The government says a reform of dog breeding practices will improve welfare standards and close legal loopholes.
Other proposals include considering new licensing requirements for rescue and rehoming organisations and consulting on a ban on electric shock collars. Plans to promote responsible dog ownership will also form part of the effort to improve public safety.
New protections for livestock
Farmers are set to gain stronger protection against livestock worrying under updated laws designed to deter dog attacks on farm animals. Police will receive new powers, and penalties will increase in response to what ministers describe as a growing burden on rural communities.
Further farming reforms will move the sector away from confinement systems for poultry and pigs. The strategy also promises more humane slaughter methods for meat chickens, pigs and farmed fish.
Crackdown on wildlife cruelty
The government says it will target activities and tools that cause unnecessary injury to wild animals. Trail hunting will be banned amid claims it is used to disguise illegal hunting. Snare traps — which often injure pets as well as wildlife — will also be outlawed.
In addition, a new close season will be introduced to protect hares during their breeding period, aimed at reducing orphaned young.
Building on recent laws
Ministers argue the strategy builds on earlier reforms including new zoo welfare standards and legislation passed this year to curb puppy smuggling and strengthen livestock protection.
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs says it will consult widely with industry groups, animal charities and experts, aiming to deliver the full programme of reforms by 2030.
The Animal Welfare Strategy will be formally published on Monday. Photo by Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris), Landmark Centre, Carrbridge by Mike Pennington, Wikimedia commons.