Together with our colleagues at the The Northern Ireland Companion Animal Welfare Group (NICAWG) a coalition of eight animal welfare charities, Rosie’s Trust welcomes the introduction of the Pet Abduction Act to NI. The new law which came into force on Saturday 24 August 2024 will make stealing a cat or dog a criminal offence.
Under the new legislation anyone found guilty of stealing a pet will face up to five years in prison, a fine or both.
Across the UK Animal welfare charities have long campaigned and have been raising awareness on this issue. The new legislation is a positive step forward in advancing animal welfare in NI.
Chair of NICAWG Nora Smith commented:
“Previously the theft of a beloved pet was treated no more seriously than the theft of a mobile or laptop. This new law reflects the fact that our animals are sentience, they are our best friends, they are part of our families and having this new law helps to demonstrate their value and the important role they play in our lives. This is positive step forward to advance animal welfare”.
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