Neil Parish MP and Wilberforce

Welfare at heart of strategy which outlines 21 recommendations

The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare Sub-Group for Dogs (APGAW)  has launched a report which sets out a series of recommendations that the group hopes the main political parties will consider and accept as part of their policy making process leading up to and following the 2015 General Election.

The report was compiled and published in partnership with a small group of key stakeholders including Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, Blue Cross, BVA, Dogs Trust, Kennel Club, PDDSA and the RSPCA, with input from cross-party politicians.

The sub-groups's vision, which informs each of the 21 recommendations detailed in the report, is:

For all those responsible for dogs in England, to ensure their welfare is maintained at the highest possible standard and to be aware of and have consideration for that dog's interaction with people and animals in their community.

From breeding, sale and trade to responsible ownership and dog control, dog welfare is firmly at the heart of each recommendation. There has been an increase in interest and awareness amongst politician of dog-related issues in recent years, and the sub-group is keen to ensure that a better understanding of dog welfare and promotion of responsible ownership is enshrined in all future legislation.

Speaking at the launch of the report Rob Flello MP, sub-group chairman, said: "Dogs are the most popular companion animal in England and most of us come in contact with them in some form on a daily basis. There is a range of legislation relating to dogs, but many argue that it is outdated and no longer fit for purpose.

"This report shows that there needs to be a clear vision for dogs breeding, selling and ownership in England. One that encourages responsible ownership in a proportionate way that both raises the standards of animal welfare and ensures public safety."

Neil Parish MP, chairman of the APGAW, added: “The need to develop an England-wide strategy for dogs has been on the APGAW agenda for some time, and I therefore welcome the publication of this report by the dog sub-group today.

"Dog issues are not party political, so I urge all my political colleagues to support this document and commit to implementing it after May’s election”.

A full copy of the report, "Review and Recommendations for Developing an Effective England-Wide strategy for Dogs," is available on the AGPAW website.