United Kingdom: Major Animal Welfare Reforms Announced

On 21 December 2025, the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) announced a package of proposed animal welfare reforms linked to a new Animal Welfare Strategy, scheduled for publication today. The announcement presents the reforms as updates to legislation, regulation, and practice that are intended to better reflect current evidence and address perceived loopholes. For companion animals, Defra signals reforms to dog breeding practices, with the stated aim of improving health and welfare and tackling puppy farming. It also indicates a consultation on banning electric shock collars, consideration of new licensing for domestic rescue and rehoming organisations, and further measures to promote responsible dog ownership, including in relation to public safety. For farmed animals, the announcement points to a move away from certain confinement systems, including colony cages for laying hens and pig farrowing crates. It also highlights plans to introduce humane slaughter requirements for farmed fish, and promote the use of slow growing meat chicken breeds. For wild animals, Defra sets out proposals to ban trail hunting and snare traps, and to introduce a close season for hares intended to reduce shooting during the breeding season. The government indicates it will work with interested parties to deliver the Strategy by the end of 2030.