RSPCA response to launch of Welsh Labour’s Senedd manifesto

RSPCA says more care about animals in Wales than any other UK nation

Commenting on the publication of the 2026 Welsh Labour Senedd election manifesto, Billie-Jade Thomas, Senior Public Affairs Manager for RSPCA Cymru, said:

Greyhound Racing

“After years of tireless campaigning alongside the Cut the Chase coalition for a ban on greyhound racing, we are keen to see the industry wound down in Wales as soon as possible.

“Greyhound racing is inherently dangerous for the dogs involved, and the industry’s own data shows that thousands of injuries have occurred in recent years, while hundreds of dogs have lost their lives. That level of suffering, purely for the purpose of entertainment, is simply unacceptable, so a commitment to enact the legislation following the recent vote is welcome.

Cat Microchipping

“Microchipping is the best way to ensure that should a cat become lost, stolen or injured, they can more easily be reunited with their owners. Mandatory microchipping for cats could improve feline welfare by reducing the number of cats being dumped while also making it easier for rescue centers such as ours to trace any stray cats that come into our care – and ensure pet traceability in Wales keeps pace with England.

Animal Welfare Establishments

“Many owners of sanctuaries and other animal welfare establishments undertake hugely important work, but the lack of regulation and oversight has long been a major concern for the RSPCA.

“Our officers have too often dealt with situations that have spiralled out of control – with capacity, governance and financial issues all a reality for many sanctuaries; demonstrating the clear need for regulation.

Exotic pets

“Regulating the keeping of exotic pets could lead to better protections for countless animals across Wales such as reptiles, birds and more. The needs of exotic animals can be challenging to meet by their owners because their needs are the same as they would be in the wild; these are fundamentally linked to certain behaviours, diets or environmental conditions that can be difficult to replicate in a home.

Statutory powers for the RSPCA

“Presently, RSPCA officers have no formal powers – but achieving statutory powers for inspectors across Wales and England is one of the charity’s eight bold ambitions in its strategy to 2030.

“Our inspectors undertake hugely important work – and we know our work helps relieve the strain on public services who would otherwise have to deal with more cases of animal cruelty. But statutory powers would mean we would have the tools to do this job even more efficiently, effectively and in line with public expectations.

Pet Theft

“The theft of a pet is devastating for both owners and their animals and the RSPCA has long called for tougher laws to act as a real deterrent to those who carry out this crime.

“For many, pets are members of the family and it just isn’t appropriate that stealing a much-loved cat or dog is currently treated the same in law as stealing a mobile phone or other non-sentient possessions. This is not acceptable as it does not take into consideration the emotional impacts of such crimes on both owners and their animals.

Wildlife

“With evidence indicating that the next Welsh Government needs to combat the devastating impacts of Bovine TB by focusing on cattle-based measures, and not killing badgers unnecessarily, any commitments which acknowledge this are much welcome.”
 

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RSPCA’s manifesto

RSPCA Cymru has published its own manifesto ahead of the 2026 vote – and members of the public can let Wales’ political parties know that animal welfare matters to them and take online action to help give animals a voice.

Billie added: “According to our Animal Kindness Index, Wales has the highest proportion of animal lovers of any UK nation – and voters will be eager to hear political parties’ plans for animals of every kind. Ahead of May’s 2026 Senedd election, we encourage all political parties in Wales to outline their plans for animal welfare – including our pets, livestock and wildlife.

“There’s so much decision-makers can do for animals in the coming years so we can further improve animal welfare in Wales. Our new Senedd manifesto is a reminder that there is still plenty more that could be done to ensure a good life for every animal in Wales.”