Launch of Companion Animal Welfare Group Wales

Eluned Morgan calls for Animal welfare to be kept firmly on the political agenda

Eluned Morgan has joined animal welfare charities at the Senedd for the launch of a new group solely dedicated to improving companion animal welfare in Wales.

The Companion Animal Welfare Group Wales (CAWGW) will inform and advise on important issues such as the breeding, sale and microchipping of cats and dogs and responsible pet ownership.

The group is comprised of five full members: Blue Cross; Cats Protection; Dogs Trust; PDSA; and the Kennel Club, as well as three associate members: C.A.R.I.A.D., The Dog Breeding Reform Group and Friends of the Animals Wales. These organisations bring together extensive expertise in companion animal welfare as well as a shared commitment to championing this in Wales, where they have experienced harrowing and upsetting cases of cruelty and neglect towards companion animals.

Collectively, the group helps tens of thousands of pets and their owners across Wales every year. This includes rehoming approximately 3,500 dogs and cats through Blue Cross, Cats Protection and Dogs Trust rehoming centres as well as via Kennel Club breed rescues and caring for 21,600 pets through PDSA’s three Pet Hospitals and Clinics. In addition, the Kennel Club have 165 Assured Breeders in Wales, with 25,000 dogs registered annually. This collaborative approach will enable CAWGW to effectively influence companion animal welfare policy and practice.

The link between dogs and companionship is one that anyone who owns a pet will be familiar with. Indeed, it’s no coincidence that dogs are often referred to as a ‘man’s best friend.’  Research shows that our furry friends contribute to our wellbeing, providing a great source of comfort, companionship and motivation. There’s also increasing recognition of the therapeutic function pets can play in relation to mental health- having a pet by our side can certainly counter a sense of loneliness.

According to Welsh Government data, 47% of households in Wales owns at least one animal, while the Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association estimates that Wales has above average rates of ownership than the UK as a whole.

As a nation of animal lovers it is important that the Welsh Government recognises that animal welfare is a priority.

Commenting on the launch, Eluned said:

“We can’t overestimate the role companion animals have on our wellbeing – not only as individuals, but society as a whole. Pets offer a tremendous amount of support and comfort, especially to those living alone or with mental health challenges, providing a much-needed connection.

This group, consisting of a dedicated team of members, will provide a strong voice and expertise to ensure that companion animal welfare is kept firmly on the political agenda here in Wales. There are many challenges facing our nation’s pets and this forum will play an important role in contributing to solutions for the benefit of companion animals and their owners.

I’d like to thank all the organisations involved for their commitment to championing animal welfare.”