On 8th October 2024, we had the pleasure of joining our friends from Hope Rescue, RSPCA Cymru and Greyhound Rescue Wales for an inspiring event in the Senedd (the Welsh Parliament). Together, we gathered to celebrate recent progress for Welsh animals while also addressing some of the ongoing challenges in animal welfare.
Sponsored by Luke Fletcher MS, the event brought together Members of the Senedd from all political parties and it was heart-warming to see such enthusiasm for animal welfare causes. Our campaign manager, Natalie, was pleased to represent World Animal Day and Naturewatch Foundation and used the opportunity to highlight some of the important successes for animals in Wales in the last twelve months, including:
- The introduction of legislation mandating CCTV in Welsh slaughterhouses.
- The continued success of the Animal Licensing Wales project, showcasing the Welsh Government’s commitment to improving enforcement.
- The public consultation on a phased ban of greyhound racing and the licensing of animal welfare establishments—both of which Naturewatch Foundation fully supports.
She also discussed the progress we want to see next for dogs in Wales through improved dog breeding regulations and a long-term commitment from the Welsh Government to support effective local authority enforcement through the Animal Licensing Wales team.
Vanessa Waddon from Hope Rescue shared some deeply moving stories about the ongoing struggles her team faces. With demand for rescue services at an all-time high, they are under tremendous pressure, particularly when it comes to supporting local councils with welfare seizures. Heartbreakingly, some dogs spend many months in Hope Rescue’s care, unable to find their forever homes due to lengthy legal processes.
Tim Doyle from Greyhound Rescue Wales reiterated his organisation’s call for a phased ban of greyhound racing in Wales. The greyhound racing industry is self-regulating and thanks to campaigns by Tim, Vanessa and others, the public are increasingly turning their backs on this cruel and unnecessary sport, which sees many greyhounds sustain injuries and even die each year after being forced to race for entertainment. We fully support an end to this cruel sport.
Throughout the day, Natalie, Katie, Wenna and our dedicated volunteer, Laura, had the opportunity to chat with many Members of the Senedd and guests who visited our stand, sparking engaging conversations around our Stop Greed Breeding and Breaking the Link campaigns. We’re so grateful for the support we received and to everyone who made the event a success.
