On 13 November 2024, 76 Members of Parliament gathered at the House of Commons to show support for Blue Cross’s manifesto, It’s a Dog’s Life.

Sponsored by Steve Race MP, the event highlighted key issues affecting dog welfare and the animal care sector as the nation moves into the next parliamentary term and beyond.

Becky Thwaites, Head of Public Affairs at Blue Cross, expressed appreciation for the high turnout. “We were delighted that so many MPs joined us and that many are as passionate as we are to improve the lives of the nation’s dogs,” she said. “Our manifesto charts the course of a dog’s life, highlighting the areas where legislative change is needed to ensure all pets are happy and healthy in a loving home.”

The manifesto focuses on improving the welfare of the UK’s 11.1 million dogs through changes to breeding regulations, responsible ownership, and other pressing issues. It also calls for stronger laws to protect dogs, including a ban on greyhound racing and updated dog control legislation.

Key Proposals in the Manifesto

The Blue Cross manifesto includes several significant recommendations to improve dog welfare. Among them:

  • Dog Breeding: A call for all breeders to be registered and licensed. Public support for this stands at 85%.
  • Responsible Ownership: Updated legislation to replace breed-specific laws with comprehensive dog control measures and tougher penalties for irresponsible owners.
  • Ban on Greyhound Racing: Between 2018 and 2023, over 2,700 racing greyhounds were reported as deceased or euthanised. Blue Cross is advocating for a nationwide ban on this activity.

Additional topics covered include improved standards for brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeding, regulations for dog groomers and walkers, the banning of electric shock collars, and recognising pet bereavement in employee leave policies.

Case Study Highlights Need for Change

Amber, a golden retriever used for breeding, underscores the urgent need for improved dog welfare. Found emaciated, suffering from sarcoptic mange, and abandoned while heavily pregnant, she required immediate veterinary intervention. After a C-section birth, Amber lacked the strength to feed her eight puppies.

Blue Cross staff at the Oxfordshire rehoming centre provided round-the-clock care to ensure Amber and her puppies survived. Thanks to their efforts, all nine dogs were eventually placed in loving homes. Amber’s story highlights the consequences of irresponsible breeding practices and the need for robust reform to prevent similar cases.

MPs Join the Campaign for Dog Welfare

Steve Race MP for Exeter voiced his support for the Blue Cross initiative. “We are known as a nation of animal lovers, but when it comes to pet welfare, so many things can be improved. I am supporting the Blue Cross with their manifesto and will be encouraging fellow MPs to do the same,” he said.

Blue Cross is also urging the public to get involved by writing to their MPs to support the manifesto’s objectives. A pre-written email template is available on their website to facilitate this process. As demand for pet welfare services rises, Blue Cross is calling on animal lovers to help sustain its critical work. The charity offers various ways to contribute, including donations, fundraising, fostering pets, volunteering at pet food banks, or advocating for improved pet welfare laws.