The Animal Welfare Bill

The Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill is new UK legislation that will tighten import rules for pets — raising the minimum import age for puppies and kittens from 15 weeks to six months, banning import of heavily pregnant animals, and prohibiting entry of dogs or cats that have been “mutilated” (for example, with cropped ears or docked tails).

The Bill’s ban on the import of dogs with docked tails would also apply to rescue organisations. This would effectively end the rehoming of certain working breeds whose docking is legal and routinely practiced in their country of origin.

Many stray dogs abroad are found in emaciated conditions, often with docked tails or cropped ears. Their only chance of survival is for rescue charities to take them into their care, provide temporary accommodation, medical treatment, and eventually rehoming. If these charities are unable to rehome them due to the new restrictions, these dogs may spend their entire lives on the streets or in overcrowded shelters.

In addition, the Bill’s proposal to increase the minimum age for importing puppies to 26 weeks would have a devastating impact on rescue organisations. More puppies would be abandoned as strays and many would not survive. Those that do would miss two crucial months of living in a home environment—months that are vital for socialisation, development, and learning to adjust to family life. This loss of early experience can significantly affect their chances of growing into well-adjusted adult dogs.

Because of the new Animal Welfare Bill, Shelby and Louie must be on our next flight, and we are urgently seeking UK foster carers to take them in as soon as they arrive.