Animal welfare campaigning

Our mission is to be here for every dog and cat – not just the ones at our three centres.

Through our campaigning, we want to prevent the causes of poor dog and cat health and welfare. Together with our supporters, the media and decision makers, we’re determined to change dogs’ and cats’ lives for the better.

With you by our side, we’ll be unstoppable. 

What we're focusing on

Bulldog with cropped ears out in the paddock
Tackling harmful trends

Extreme features in dogs and cats have become increasingly popular. But behind the 'cute' or ‘powerful’ appearances that someone might want, these animals often suffer health problems that affect their quality of life.

Wrinkly dog looking sad
Driving up welfare standards in breeding

There’s more demand than ever for dogs and cats. At the same time, social media and online platforms have made the process of buying and selling animals much easier.
Husky sat in a field
Improving public safety around dogs

There have been more devastating dog attacks in recent years. It’s clear that something needs to change. The government have responded with breed bans, but evidence shows these have never worked.
Grey cat sitting on sofa
Making more rental properties pet friendly

Housing issues are a leading reason for dogs and cats being given to rescues. It’s a heartbreak that could so easily be avoided.

WILL YOU JOIN US?

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How our work impacts dogs and cats lives

Campaigning for change can help animals get a second chance.

Milo's Story
Milo's Story

Milo was just six months old when he was brought to Battersea’s London centre. In his short life up until that point, he had already had his ears cropped and tail docked – both of which have been illegal practices in the UK for some time.

15 Apr 2025 | Case studies, Animal stories
Zeke's Story
Zeke's Story
15 Jul 2024 | Case studies, Animal stories
Aurora's Story
Aurora's Story
15 Jul 2024 | Case studies, Animal stories
Lovebug's Story
Lovebug's Story
15 Jul 2024 | Case studies, Animal stories
Phoebe's Story
Phoebe's Story
22 Jun 2023 | Case studies, Animal stories

Our latest news

Pet Friendly Properties
Pet Friendly Properties

Our campaign supports an open and constructive dialogue between landlords and tenants.
Battersea Cruelty Sentencing Campaign
Battersea Cruelty Sentencing Campaign

Our campaign successfully increased maximum sentences for acts of animal cruelty. Find out more about how we delivered the change.
Compulsory dog and cat microchipping
Compulsory dog and cat microchipping

How has compulsory microchipping helped, and where is there room for improvement to legislation?

Battersea Talks

Take a look at our new video series, where we highlight important animal welfare issues.

The Dangerous Dogs Act

At Battersea, we believe this is an unfair Act that stigmatises dogs based on how they look and we are working with political stakeholders and other animal welfare organisations to find a better way to protect the public and innocent dogs.

Flat-faced breeds

At Battersea we see many flat-faced breeds coming into us, often needing significant medical attention. We urge potential owners to consider the specialist care these animals might need, and to never buy or adopt a pet based on looks alone.

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Our Policies
Our Policies

We work with key decision makers to influence changes to the law.
Fundraising
Fundraising

Loads of fun ideas and practical advice on raising funds for us.
Volunteering at Battersea
Volunteering at Battersea

​Everything you need to know about volunteering at our Battersea centres.