Having attended various hunts disguised as an 'outdoor and country' figure, I've witnessed first-hand the horrifying reality of foxes and other wild mammals being cruelly torn apart by hunt organisations. These organisations hide behind a deceptive practice called "trail hunting," which serves as a smokescreen for their barbaric activities.

It is time to put an end to this cruelty once and for all. We must stand together to protect innocent animals, prevent assault on hunt saboteurs, and ensure that justice prevails over biased police involvement that often favors these hunting organisations.

Here are some compelling reasons why we need your support:

1. Ineffective Regulation: Despite the introduction of the Hunting Act 2004, which aimed to ban fox hunting in England and Wales, loopholes have allowed hunts to continue under the guise of "trail hunting." This practice claims to follow artificial scent trails but frequently leads to real animal pursuits.

2. Animal Suffering: The chase itself causes immense stress and suffering for wild mammals such as foxes, hares, deer, and mink. Once caught by hounds or other means employed by hunters, these animals endure brutal deaths through being torn apart or shot.

3. Public Opinion: A vast majority of people in the UK oppose hunting wild mammals with dogs. According to a 2019 Ipsos MORI poll commissioned by League Against Cruel Sports (LACS), 85% of respondents agreed that fox hunting should remain illegal.

4. Hunt Saboteur Assaults: Hunt saboteurs play a crucial role in monitoring hunts and intervening when necessary to protect wildlife from harm. However, they often face physical assaults from hunt supporters who seek to intimidate them into silence.

5. Biased Police Involvement: There have been numerous instances where police officers appear complicit in supporting the hunting organizations rather than enforcing the law. This biased involvement undermines public trust and allows illegal hunting to persist.

We urge you to support this petition calling on the UK government to take immediate action:

1. Strengthen Legislation: Close existing loopholes in the Hunting Act 2004, ensuring that "trail hunting" cannot be used as a cover for illegal hunting practices.

2. Increase Penalties: Introduce stricter penalties for those found guilty of illegally hunting wild mammals, including substantial fines and potential imprisonment.

3. Protect Hunt Saboteurs: Implement measures to safeguard hunt saboteurs from assault and intimidation, ensuring their safety while they work to protect wildlife.

4. Independent Monitoring: Establish an independent body responsible for monitoring hunts and investigating any allegations of illegal activity or police bias.

Together, we can make a difference and put an end to this cruel practice that has no place in our modern society. Sign this petition today and help us create a future where wild mammals are free from persecution!

[Sources:
- League Against Cruel Sports (LACS) - www.league.org.uk
- Ipsos MORI poll commissioned by LACS - please search "Ipsos MORI poll fox hunting 2019"]