Petition · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Change law regarding owners giving up their dogs
Closed
422 signatures
What the petition asks
We don't think owners have enough rights to reclaim their dog once it's been relinquished, even if they regret the decision, misunderstand the agreement, or are scammed.
We think the law should insist a formal contract is signed by the original owner before the owner loses the legal right to reclaim their dog. In cases where no formal contract exists, such as informal agreements, the original owner should have the legal chance to reclaim their dog.
This is because dogs are sentient beings (not property). We believe it will help avoid owners being misled, unclear about agreements, or scammed into rehoming their dogs. It will add clarity to agreements & safeguard people and dogs.
This is because dogs are sentient beings (not property). We believe it will help avoid owners being misled, unclear about agreements, or scammed into rehoming their dogs. It will add clarity to agreements & safeguard people and dogs.
Timeline
| 2 Apr 2025 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 2 Oct 2025 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
422
Status
Closed
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Opened
2 Apr 2025
Closed
2 Oct 2025
Follow this petition
Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.
Source: the official petition page. Last checked 4 Aug 2026.