Bransby Horses is delighted with the introduction of tougher prison sentences for animal cruelty this summer. The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill came into force on 30th June and saw the maximum prison sentence for animal cruelty raised from six months to five years.
The new, tougher prison sentences for animal cruelty brought forward by the Bill comes after years of campaigning by animal welfare organisations and MPs following the government’s 2017 pledge to reform the maximum sentence for those prosecuted under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, bringing England in line with the rest of the UK.
Following the publication of Britain’s Horse Problem in December – a report in which organisations joined forces to express their concern for an increase in equine welfare issues as a result of the pandemic – this change in legislation could not be more welcome to tackle the issues of equine welfare at the source by acting as a deterrent.
Emma Carter, Executive Director of Equine Welfare commented: “We were delighted with the government’s announcement earlier this year to introduce tougher prison sentences for cruelty to animals.
“Now the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act has come into effect, it will allow courts to issue harsher and more fitting sentences for the severe cases we see on a regular basis, and we are hopeful that it will serve as a deterrent.
“We continue to urge our supporters to report any equine welfare concerns to our Welfare Hotline on 01427 787 369. Our friendly team are available to provide non-judgemental advice and support to anyone who requires assistance with their horses, ponies or donkeys.”
This collective achievement proves we all have the power to change the lives of innocent animals for the better.
Be their voice. Please consider making a donation to Bransby Horses to change the lives of the equines we help and make a difference today.