Member of Parliament for Epping Forest, Dr Neil Hudson, recently met again with representatives from Dogs Trust to discuss dog welfare and issues affecting dog owners and animal welfare organisations at an event hosted by the charity in Westminster.
The charity held the event in the House of Commons to raise awareness of the need for responsible dog ownership and how current legislation relating to dogs and their owners could be improved. Representatives from Dogs Trust spoke to MPs from across the political spectrum about issues including puppy smuggling, dog control, the availability of pet-friendly housing, and the growing pressures charities working in the animal welfare sector face.
Dr Hudson, a vocal advocate for animal welfare and Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Animal Welfare, is co-sponsoring the Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats, and Ferrets) Bill. This bill seeks to address issues like illegal puppy imports and had its Second Reading on 29th November 2024.
Epping Forest MP Dr Neil Hudson said:
“As an MP, veterinary surgeon, Shadow DEFRA Minister and animal lover, I am proud to support Dogs Trust in their mission to improve dog health and welfare.
“Raising awareness of key animal health and welfare issues is a key priority of mine in Parliament.
“With growing demands on the animal welfare sector, it is essential we work together to ensure our laws evolve to meet these challenges.”
Claire Calder, Head of Public Affairs at Dogs Trust, said:
“MPs are a crucial piece of the puzzle that can build a better future for dogs, so we were thrilled to host this event in Parliament, allowing us to directly engage with them on the issues facing dogs, their owners, and the broader animal welfare sector.
“With Dogs Trust continuing to receive record numbers of enquiries from dog owners in need of support, it is essential that we have the backing of lawmakers in shaping legislation that impacts dogs and their welfare.
“We look forward to continuing to collaborate with MPs, including Dr Neil Hudson MP, to address these pressing issues and further improve dog welfare across the UK."
For more information on Dr Hudson’s work on animal health and welfare, please see: https://www.neilhudson.org.uk/campaigns/supporting-animal-health-and-welfare
To learn more about the work of Dogs Trust and the issues it campaigns on, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/our-views
Pictured: Dr Neil Hudson MP with Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director at Dogs Trust.
