RSPCA Cymru Supports New Animal Welfare Plan While Opposing Badger Culling

The plan was unveiled as part of the Plaid Cymru administration’s Programme for Government 2026-2030, which was published on September 22. It aims for a ‘renewed and science-led’ approach to animal welfare, covering both companion animals and livestock.

The organization is hopeful that the plan will lead to better regulations for animal welfare establishments, including sanctuaries, rescues, and rehoming centers. RSPCA Cymru insists that local authorities need the necessary resources to effectively implement these regulations.

Additionally, the charity is advocating for enhanced standards related to dog and cat breeding, stricter laws against dog theft, a prohibition on keeping primates as pets, and mandatory microchipping for cats.

The Welsh Government also plans to evolve the Sustainable Farming Scheme, an initiative RSPCA Cymru supports. David Bowles, RSPCA's head of campaigns and public affairs, highlighted the importance of the Agriculture (Wales) Act in improving farmed animal welfare, stressing that incentives for farmers are crucial to achieving high welfare standards.

However, with the introduction of the new Bovine TB Plan, RSPCA Cymru warns against any potential regression regarding badger culling policies. Recent research indicates that 46 percent of people in Wales oppose badger culling, while only 27 percent support it, and a significant 98 percent prioritize wildlife protection, with badgers being among the most favored species.

Bowles stated that it is essential for the strategy addressing bovine TB to prioritize cattle-related solutions instead of resorting to unnecessary badger killings. He also noted the importance of the ongoing review by the Technical Advisory Group into wildlife and bovine TB evidence, urging for its completion before any decisions are made.

He concluded that any new commitments to animal welfare would be insincere if they lead to a reversal of Wales' stance against badger culling.