Morecambe MP backs bid to tackle 'abhorrent' puppy farming once and for all

People often write to me with concerns over animal welfare, including puppy farming, breeding practices and livestock worrying. It’s clear that in our community, animals aren’t an afterthought, they’re part of everyday life and deeply loved.

That’s why I’m really pleased that the government is launching its new Animal Welfare Strategy. It’s a big step forward and one that’s been a long time coming. For too many years, outdated laws and loopholes have left animals exposed to mistreatment, whilst rogue breeders and bad actors have been allowed to get away with practices most of us find unacceptable.

One of the most important changes is tackling puppy farming once and for all. We’ve all heard the heartbreaking stories; breeding dogs kept in appalling conditions, overbred and denied proper care, with puppies left suffering long-term health problems.

This is an issue which I have supported constituents with after a young puppy died shortly after being bought from a puppy farm with abhorrent conditions.

So, I am pleased to see that the strategy includes a consultation to reform dog breeding practices, delivering on our promise to end puppy farming and build on the new law that already cracks down on puppy smuggling. This is about putting animal welfare ahead of profit, plain and simple.

The strategy also looks at improving standards across the board for pets. That includes consulting on a ban on electric shock collars, licensing domestic rescue and rehoming organisations to make sure high welfare standards apply everywhere, and promoting responsible dog ownership to protect both pets and public safety.

We’re also implementing measures from the Renters’ Rights Act to make it easier for tenants to keep pets because having a stable, loving home shouldn’t depend on whether you rent or own.

Animal welfare doesn’t stop at our front doors. Farmers in our area know all too well the emotional and financial toll of livestock worrying. New laws will introduce tougher penalties and give police greater powers to deal with dog attacks on farm animals, offering much-needed protection for farming communities.

The strategy also sets out major reforms for farmed animals and wildlife. That means moving away from confinement systems like caged hens and improving slaughter practices to reduce suffering. This is an issue which many constituents have contacted me about as part of a national campaign so it is good to see these changes are practical, evidence-based changes that reflect modern values and expectations.

This Animal Welfare Strategy is ambitious but it’s also realistic. It builds on reforms already delivered, from improved zoo standards to stronger protections against puppy smuggling, and sets a clear direction through to 2030. Above all, it reflects something most of us agree on - animals deserve to be treated with care, compassion and respect. I’m proud to support that and I know many of you will be too.