The proposal for introducing background checks for all new owners of pets reflects the concern in the UK towards animal welfare. Each year thousands of animals suffer needlessly at the hands of people who have the propensity for violence and cruelty. This can stop.

UK law currently lacks measures that safeguard against animals from falling into the hands of people with a known background for violence. Most animals go to good homes, but for the sake of other animals who may fall into dangerous hands, we owe it to them to ensure no-one else suffers in silence. All pets are as vulnerable as a small baby. They have little means of escape and cannot talk. 

A criminal background check, similar to what is currently available for vulnerable children and adults through the Disclosure and Barring Service, will help to safeguard animals from abuse. Animal vendors will be held legally responsible in applying to the Disclosure and Barring Service for completion of checks. All animal vendors will need to hold a valid licence before being allowed to manage information safely about who is eligible for receipt of an animal.