The UK government has today published a sweeping new animal welfare framework, outlining what it describes as the most ambitious plans for animal protection in a generation. The strategy sets out a raft of proposals aimed at strengthening protections for domestic pets, farm livestock, and wildlife across the nation.
Key Proposals for Pets and Wildlife
At the heart of the strategy are plans that could see the use of electric shock collars for pets outlawed following a formal consultation. The government cites significant welfare risks associated with the devices. Alongside this, the framework signals a crackdown on unethical dog breeding, including so-called puppy farming.
For wildlife, ministers are recommending a ban on trail hunting, amid persistent concerns that the practice is being used to disguise illegal fox hunting. The strategy also proposes prohibiting the use of snare traps and introducing a closed season for hare hunting to reduce suffering.
Farm Animal Reforms and Wider Protections
The proposed reforms extend to agriculture, with plans to phase out colony cages for laying hens and farrowing crates for pigs. The government also wants to see more humane slaughter methods adopted for farmed fish.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds launched the strategy following a visit to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. She stated, "Our strategy will raise welfare standards for animals in the home, on the farm and in the wild." She added that the UK remains "a nation of animal lovers" and that the government is building on recent laws against puppy smuggling and livestock worrying.
Reaction and Political Debate
The RSPCA welcomed the strategy as a "significant step forward." Thomas Schultz-Jagow, the charity's director of advocacy, said it "has the potential to improve the lives of millions of animals" and shows a "strong commitment to animal welfare."
However, the announcement has faced criticism. The Countryside Alliance strongly opposed the move against trail hunting, with chief executive Tim Bonner calling it a "divisive" policy based on "spurious claims" that could harm rural communities. The Conservative opposition also questioned the timing of the pre-Christmas announcement, suggesting it was designed to minimise scrutiny. Shadow environment secretary Victoria Atkins accused Labour of favouring foreign farmers and delivering a "hammerblow to farming profitability."
The strategy acknowledges ongoing concerns around XL bully-type dogs, which were recently banned, and includes plans for a public safety campaign on responsible dog ownership.
