A petition calling for a public register of animal abusers has collected more than 210,000 signatures. Launched in March, it has triggered debate among welfare groups over risks of vigilante action. The government has stated it has no plans to create such a register.
Cleaner and influencer Bea Elton started the petition on 12 March. It seeks a public list of convicted animal abusers and lifetime bans on pet ownership for those found guilty. The petition closes on 12 September and will now be considered for a debate in Parliament.