Petition · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Mandate a 72-hour period before formal acceptance of a dog surrender document
Closed
2,395 signatures
What the petition asks
The Government must institute a non-waivable 72-hour cooling off period before requesting a signature for any relinquishment form offered in lieu of seizure of a dog.
The police must complete and record a checklist to verify the owner's capacity, noting trauma or incapacitation, and confirming they have been advised of their legal rights.
Currently, dog owners can be coerced into making an irreversible decision while distressed or mentally incapacitated. This practice risks breaching the Equality Act 2010 by failing to provide Reasonable Adjustment for owners with disabilities, mental health conditions, or learning difficulties. A 72-hour window is essential to allow owners, especially those who are vulnerable, the opportunity to seek legal advice and reach an informed decision.
Currently, dog owners can be coerced into making an irreversible decision while distressed or mentally incapacitated. This practice risks breaching the Equality Act 2010 by failing to provide Reasonable Adjustment for owners with disabilities, mental health conditions, or learning difficulties. A 72-hour window is essential to allow owners, especially those who are vulnerable, the opportunity to seek legal advice and reach an informed decision.
Timeline
| 7 Jan 2026 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 7 Jul 2026 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
2,395
Status
Closed
Department
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Opened
7 Jan 2026
Closed
7 Jul 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 31 Jul 2026.