Running a charity that utilises thermal drones to search for missing pets, we have witnessed firsthand the distress caused when dogs disappear due to the negligence of some dog walkers. We aswell as many other organisations across the UK are approached all too often by distraught pet owners whose beloved family members have gone missing on walks meant to be safe and enjoyable.

Despite the significant responsibility that comes with caring for someone else's pet, dog walking in the UK largely operates without oversight. Unlike many professions that involve handling children or vulnerable individuals, there are no standard qualifications or regulatory measures ensuring the quality and safety of these services. This lack of regulation leaves room for preventable mistakes that can lead to heartbreak and tragedy.

Every pet owner deserves the peace of mind knowing their four legged family member is being taken care of by responsible and qualified individuals. Implementing mandatory regulations for dog walkers would ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to prevent incidents that could put pets at risk. This could include standardised training courses, certification requirements and insurance cover designed to enhance accountability and professionalism in the industry.

Similar regulations in other countries have successfully reduced negative incidents, providing a proven model for how the UK can enhance the safety of dog walking services. A professional regulatory body could oversee these standards, providing recourse for pet owners and maintaining public trust in the profession.

With the ever-growing number of dogs in our communities, the need to ensure their safety while under the care of others has never been more crucial. Regulation would not only protect those pets and owners who rely on dog walkers but also support conscientious dog walkers in delivering the highest standard of service.

A petition can change things, certainly not immediately but over time, if you do not ignore it. The Pet Abduction law 2024 came into place because those that could change the law realised the depth of emotion pet owners have for their pets and they were not going to stop fighting for change, petitions changed the law for stolen pets. Please join us in calling on regulatory bodies to implement these necessary changes and protect our country's beloved pets. Sign this petition to demand mandatory regulation for dog walkers in the UK.