Thank you so much to everyone who has signed and shared this petition. I want to keep you informed about what is happening.
I have now written formally to the UK Government, the Parliamentary Petitions Committee, and DEFRA, outlining the urgent need to pause all non-essential dog breeding until rescue dogs have homes. I have also explained why there are currently two petitions on this issue and asked that they be considered together as one collective voice.
We are now awaiting responses.
In the meantime, if anyone has suggestions for other appropriate departments, officials, organisations, or representatives who should receive this message, please feel free to share those ideas in the comments. Collective wisdom and constructive suggestions are very welcome.
Thank you again for standing up for dogs who cannot speak for themselves.
Full text of the email sent (for transparency):
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing in connection with two public petitions I have submitted regarding the urgent issue of dog overpopulation and animal welfare in the UK.
The petitions call for a pause on all non-essential dog breeding until existing rescue dogs have been rehomed:
I wish to clarify that both petitions address the same issue and intention. The second petition was created only because the first was accidentally deleted; it reappeared shortly afterwards. For this reason, there are now two active petitions expressing the same public concern. I respectfully ask that they be considered together, as one collective voice, reflecting the true level of public support for this issue.
UK rescue centres are overwhelmed. Dogs are being abandoned, surrendered, or euthanised — not because they are unwanted, but because breeding continues unchecked while thousands of dogs already exist without homes. This is not only a welfare crisis; it is a moral one.
Pausing non-essential breeding would:
• Reduce pressure on rescue centres
• Curb irresponsible and profit-driven breeding
• Protect animal welfare
• Encourage adoption rather than replacement
This request does not target responsible ownership or essential working-dog programmes. It is a temporary, compassionate measure responding to a growing emergency.
I urge the Government to treat this matter with the seriousness it deserves and to listen to the many citizens who have signed these petitions out of concern for the wellbeing of animals who cannot speak for themselves.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Yours faithfully,
Nina Cooper
Great Malvern, Worcestershire
Thank you for reading and for continuing to support this cause.