British MPs have discussed mandatory licensing for animal rescue centres, including those for horses, following a petition signed by nearly 110,000 people. The government plans a consultation later this year to address poor practices in some rescues. Equine welfare charities support the move if it is properly enforced.
On 26 January 2026, MPs in the UK Parliament debated a petition calling for the licensing and regulation of dog and cat rescue centres. The petition, backed by almost 110,000 signatures, argued that "clear legal requirements" from the government could safeguard animal welfare. While acknowledging that many rescues perform "great work," MPs highlighted concerns about operations lacking legal oversight, which enable unethical practices.
MP Richard Holden emphasized the issue, stating that anyone, "regardless of their experience or intention," can establish an animal rescue or rehoming centre without facing inspections or monitoring. He noted this has led to suffering among animals, including not only dogs and cats but also horses and others.
The government's December 2025 animal welfare strategy recognized the "need to crack down on poor practices" in some rescues and pledged a consultation on licensing for rescue and rehoming organizations. During the debate, Defra minister Angela Eagle referred to this consultation, saying it would help reach "an appropriate decision about the best way to license and regulate" while ensuring any framework remains "proportionate." The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) confirmed to Horse & Hound that the consultation will occur "in due course."
Equine welfare charities have long advocated for such licensing. Kim Ayling, head of public affairs at World Horse Welfare, told Horse & Hound that it "should improve animal welfare, if implemented and enforced appropriately." She added, "laws are not worth the paper they are written on unless they are effectively implemented and enforced by trained inspectors," and stressed the need to improve varying enforcement of existing regulations, such as for riding establishments.
Redwings Horse Sanctuary also welcomed the consultation, citing involvement in cases of serious welfare issues at self-proclaimed sanctuaries. Campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg said, "The commitment, knowledge and resources needed to care for neglected, often challenging rescue cases should not be underestimated." She called for a framework that supports legitimate rescues while preventing harm and misuse of public donations.
Comparisons were drawn to devolved administrations: Wales introduced a voluntary code of practice for animal welfare establishments in 2020, which Redwings' head of welfare Nic de Brauwere described as "helpful" but insufficient without mandatory licensing to enforce standards. A 2024 Welsh consultation yielded strong responses, leading to 2025 proposals for potential regulation, including licensing. Scotland implemented mandatory licensing in 2021.
