Following the launch of our campaign to end the use of dogs in experiments, we are pleased to see that the number of cruel and unnecessary tests on dogs in the UK has dropped by 22% (to 3,847), compared to 2016. The news has come as part of the Home Office’s 2017 statistics on animal experiments.

While this is a step in the right direction and shows that progress can be made, we won’t rest until all of our furry companions are in homes not laboratories. 

Decisions just taken by the government of the Brussels region in Belgium demonstrate that it is entirely possible to end the use of dogs in experiments. From 1st January 2020, experiments involving dogs will be forbidden in the Brussels-Capital Region.

Last week canine social media stars including Marcel Le Corgi, Elle the Frenchie and Steph and the Spaniels joined us for our Westminster dog walk, one of many walks that took place across the UK as part of our #LeadTheWay campaign calling on the Home Office to end the use of dogs in UK experiments by 2020.

Dr Lisa Cameron, MP for East Kilbride, Strathaven and Lesmahagow and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Dog Advisory Welfare Group showed her support by posing for pictures with the canine stars and calling on the government to act. Dr Cameron said: “As a nation of animal lovers, the UK should lead the way in reducing animal testing. Dog experiments are unethical and outdated and there are many credible and effective alternatives that can be used instead. I am delighted to support the Cruelty Free International call for the Home Office to review and put in place a roadmap to end the use of dogs in UK laboratories.”

To end this outdated practice, we have launched a petition with the goal of reaching 100,000 signatures to trigger a debate on the topic in Parliament, which more than 20,000 people have already signed. To help put a stop to the cruel and unnecessary use of dogs in experiments please sign and share.