25.11.25
The story behind Operation Major
Operation Major was born out of an incident of barbaric animal abuse, pain, and suffering, however a story that ended in hope. The initiative takes its name from Major, a brave Patterdale terrier who suffered horrific injuries during an incident of badger persecution. His story became the driving force behind a pioneering collaborative effort to tackle wildlife crime and protect the dogs that are often used from harm.
The incident that sparked action
Major’s injuries were catastrophic — deep wounds to his face and jaw that required extensive veterinary treatment. Fortunately, Major’s story did not end there. Thanks to the care he received from the RSPCA, he recovered and was later rehomed into a loving environment, where he continues to live a comfortable and happy life. But his suffering highlighted a much bigger problem — one that demanded coordinated action.
Why Operation Major was formed
Major’s case exposed gaps in how wildlife crimes and related dog injuries were being identified, reported, and investigated. It became clear that police officers, veterinarians, and the public all had critical roles to play in recognising and responding to these often-hidden crimes.
To address this, Operation Major was established — a partnership effort involving Naturewatch Foundation, the League Against Cruel Sports, the Badger Trust, the RSPCA and assisted by veterinary professionals. Together, these organisations aim to improve reporting, investigations, and the prevention of wildlife crime, while protecting both wild animals and domestic pets.
Aim of Operation Major
Operation Major endeavours to build a strong, collaborative response that reduces harm to dogs, protects wildlife, and strengthens the detection and prevention of wildlife crime and animal abuse across the UK.
Objectives
For the Public
- Raise awareness that dogs are frequently injured through wildlife crime, including badger baiting and other illegal activities.
- Encourage members of the public to report any concerns about dog injuries or suspicious activity in the countryside.
Police Officers
- Increase recognition of wildlife crime indicators.
- Encourage initiative-taking investigations when dogs display suspicious or unexplained injuries.
Vets
- Promote vigilance in identifying and reporting suspected wildlife crime–related injuries in dogs.
- Provide clear and accessible reporting pathways to ensure concerns reach the right authorities quickly.
Collaborative work for change
The formation of Operation Major represents a collaboration against cruelty. By bringing together enforcement bodies, animal welfare organisations, veterinary professionals, and the public, this initiative turns one dog’s tragic story into a legacy — one of awareness, protection, and partnership working.
Major’s courage and resilience have inspired real change. His name now stands as a reminder that every injury tells a story — and that by working together, we can ensure fewer dogs, and fewer wild animals, suffer the same fate.
Report
If you have any information or concerns about dogs being used in wildlife crime, you can help. If you know which police force is responsible for the area where the dog is located, please contact them directly. Alternatively, you can use our secure online reporting form, and we will ensure the information is passed to the appropriate force.
Our secure online reporting form, allows anyone to share information safely and confidentially. Your report could make a real difference in preventing cruelty and bringing offenders to justice.
Thank you
Jim.
