My name is James Dreyfus &, for those of you who know me, a dog called Hobbes owns me. Previously a dog named Calvin owned me. I act occasionally, if I’m not routinely blacklisted or cancelled for believing in facts. But that’s another story…

I’m obviously not calling for all dogs to have the freedom to roam anywhere they choose. Farmers fields, private land, public pathways & livestock in fields etc, are off-limits, or have leash restrictions. For good reason. We all know this. 

But I’m a proud dog owner who believes passionately in the beauty and freedom of the British countryside. My loony dog and I have roamed these incredible spaces for years, cherishing the fresh air and open spaces that provide us with a sense of freedom and connection to nature. However, it deeply saddens and concerns me to learn of recent moves to impose restrictions on dogs that wander these cherished green expanses, all in the name of not offending other faiths and making the countryside supposedly ‘too white’, as implied by increasingly authoritarian councils & administrations, whom, I believe, speak for no one but themselves. Who exactly was consulted about this? Who has decided to speak on behalf of so many? Why does this decision reek of division & condescension? 

The imposition of such misguided restrictions undermines the very principles of freedom our nation stands for. We must ask ourselves—where will this slippery slope lead us? Instead of blanket bans or unnecessary rules, we should be focusing on responsible dog ownership. Owners should be educated and encouraged to manage their dogs responsibly—leashing when appropriate and unleashing when safe and permissible.

No one would go to India today & demand cows be removed because they cause some perceived offence. No one would go to the Amazon and demand all snakes & spiders be routed, because someone was afraid. It simply wouldn’t be tolerated. 

The same should apply here. 

Around 33.3% of British households own a dog according to a 2020/21 survey reported by Statista. This equates to millions of responsible owners who cherish their time walking in the countryside and strongly oppose these unnecessary restrictions. Dogs are part of our heritage, often acting as companions, protectors and guides, and it is important we continue to ensure a welcoming environment in our rural spaces where they can thrive without unwarranted constraints.

The countryside is a shared space that belongs to all citizens, regardless of background or religion. Imposing restrictions based on fear or misunderstanding causes division rather than unity. Our common ground should be embraced, respected, and shared, not limited by unfounded fears or divisive assumptions.

I call upon policymakers and local councils to reject this nonsensical idea. Encourage dialogue and understanding among diverse communities. Foster an environment of mutual respect and freedom. Let's work towards concrete, actionable solutions such as public awareness campaigns on responsible pet ownership, and open access to training resources for dog owners. Let the beauty and freedom of the British countryside continue to be a unifying experience for everyone.

I urge you to write to your local MP’s, to DEFRA, the Chiltern National Landscape, the Countryside Alliance, & the local councils of Gloucestershire, to register your concern about what being “too white” means & how restricting dogs would impact the lives of the people, of any ethnicity & faith, who’ve chosen to live in the countryside. 

By signing this petition, you are standing up for responsible pet ownership, & freedom in our cherished countryside. Join me in rejecting these restrictions and preserving the integrity and openness of our countryside—all without compromising the responsibilities that come with dog ownership. Let's ensure the British countryside remains a place where all can enjoy safely and without prejudice. Please sign this petition to make your voice heard!

Please share & sign. Forward to friends, colleagues & other slaves of the canine world.