How the UK’s Biggest Pet Welfare Organisations Are Making a Difference

At Preloved, we care deeply about pet welfare, and we know our community does too! Across the UK, leading animal charities are working tirelessly to improve the lives of pets and their owners. From changing laws to spreading awareness, here’s how some of the biggest pet welfare organisations are making a real impact.

Dogs Trust: Apart But Not Alone

Dogs Trust is on a mission to help dog owners going through tough times with their Apart But Not Alone campaign. This initiative aims to ensure that no dog owner has to choose between their pet and safe housing. By working with housing providers and policymakers, Dogs Trust is advocating for more pet-friendly rental policies so fewer people are forced to give up their beloved pets.

The campaign is also helping dog owners find practical solutions, such as temporary fostering options, to keep pets and their families together wherever possible. If you’re a dog owner facing housing challenges, you can find valuable support and advice through Dogs Trust’s campaign resources.

Cats Protection: Fighting for Feline Rights

Cats Protection is busy championing better welfare for cats across the UK. Their campaign work focuses on improving laws and policies that affect cat welfare, such as:

• Compulsory Microchipping – From June 2024, all pet cats in England must be microchipped, thanks in part to Cats Protection’s persistent campaigning.
• Cat-Curiosity in Politics – They lobby MPs on issues like banning snares and fireworks, both of which can harm cats.
• The Big Kitten Conundrum – This campaign raises awareness of the importance of neutering to prevent unplanned litters and reduce the number of cats needing homes.

By working with pet owners, vets, and policymakers, Cats Protection is making the UK a safer and more cat-friendly place.

Battersea: Speaking Up for Strays

Battersea is well known for caring for thousands of dogs and cats each year, but did you know they’re also leading important campaigns to improve animal welfare laws?

• Tougher Sentences for Animal Cruelty – Their hard work helped increase maximum prison sentences for animal cruelty from six months to five years.
• Pet-Friendly Renting – Battersea is pushing for more landlords to allow pets, ensuring fewer animals are abandoned due to housing restrictions.
• Responsible Dog Ownership – They educate the public on proper pet care to help reduce the number of pets ending up in shelters.

Through their campaigning efforts, Battersea is making real, lasting changes for pets and their owners.

Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund: Better Lives for Bunnies

Rabbits are often misunderstood as low-maintenance pets, but the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF) is working hard to change that. Their campaigns focus on improving rabbit welfare through education and legislation.

• Better Legislation for Rabbits – RWAF is calling for pet rabbit welfare laws to be brought in line with those protecting cats and dogs. This includes proper housing standards and a ban on tiny, unsuitable cages.
• A Hutch Is Not Enough – This campaign highlights the need for spacious, enriching environments for rabbits, encouraging owners to provide better living conditions.
• Companion Rabbits – Rabbits are social animals, and RWAF promotes the importance of keeping them in pairs for a happier, healthier life.

By pushing for better laws and educating owners, RWAF is ensuring rabbits get the care and respect they deserve.

How You Can Help

These organisations rely on public support to continue their important work. Whether it’s signing a petition, making a donation, or simply spreading awareness, every little action counts. If you’re passionate about pet welfare, consider getting involved with one of these fantastic campaigns.

At Preloved, we believe every pet deserves a loving, forever home. By staying informed and supporting the work of these incredible charities, we can all play a part in making life better for pets across the UK!