Change law regarding owners giving up their dogs
We don't think owners have enough rights to reclaim their dog once it's been relinquished, even if they regret the decision, misunderstand the agreement, or are scammed.
Signatures
422
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 422/10,000
Debate threshold (100,000) · 422/100,000
- 02 OCT 2025Petition closedFinal total: 422 signatures
- 02 APR 2025Petition opened for signatures
Background
We think the law should insist a formal contract is signed by the original owner before the owner loses the legal right to reclaim their dog. In cases where no formal contract exists, such as informal agreements, the original owner should have the legal chance to reclaim their dog.
This is because dogs are sentient beings (not property). We believe it will help avoid owners being misled, unclear about agreements, or scammed into rehoming their dogs. It will add clarity to agreements & safeguard people and dogs.