An Oldham-based cat rescue is spearheading a campaign to amend UK animal welfare laws following the gruesome discovery of a decapitated cat near its facility. The cat, named Poppy, was a 13-year-old resident at Oldham Cats Rescue and was found near the center on Saxon Street, Middleton, in what has been described as a horrific act of animal cruelty.
The volunteers at the center were devastated to find Poppy’s body in close proximity to the facility, with signs suggesting a deliberate act of violence. The manner of the injury led veterinarians and the rescue’s manager, Davina Hanes, to suspect foul play. “It was too clean a break,” Ms. Hanes stated, indicating that this was not a result of an animal attack.
The incident, which left the team at Oldham Cats Rescue “traumatized and heartbroken,” is unprecedented in the shelter’s 26-year history, according to Ms. Hanes. In response, the rescue has initiated plans to build “Poppy’s Palace,” a safe catio where cats can roam securely at night. However, the response from local law enforcement has been criticized as hesitant and inadequate, with police reportedly declining to actively investigate the incident.
The situation has ignited a strong response from the community, leading to an outpouring of support from individuals and local businesses. This has bolstered the rescue center’s resolve to demand changes to the current laws regarding animal welfare. Ms. Hanes pointed out the disparity in legal protections afforded to cats compared to other animals, like dogs. Under the UK Animal Welfare Act 2006, harm to cats is treated akin to damage to property, a standard that many animal rights advocates find unacceptable.
In light of these events, Oldham Cats Rescue is advocating for “Poppy’s Law.” This proposed legislation aims to place cats on equal legal footing with dogs, particularly concerning road traffic accidents and cases of intentional cruelty. The law would mandate police to investigate such crimes rigorously and would require police commissioners to publish annual reports detailing these incidents and the actions taken.
Ms. Hanes expressed concern about the broader implications of such acts of cruelty, suggesting that individuals capable of such violence might escalate their behaviors, posing a greater threat to the community. “It’s not just an animal welfare issue,” she said, underscoring the potential link between animal cruelty and more severe crimes.
The campaign for Poppy’s Law also seeks to improve communication and accountability among police forces handling these cases. This comes after an alleged slow response to the incident, which Ms. Hanes attributed to a breakdown in communication between central and local police teams.
The rescue center has launched a petition on Change.org to garner support for the proposed legal changes. The petition, named “Implement Poppy’s Law: Equal Rights for Cats as for Other Animals,” has already gathered significant support, reflecting a community united in its stance against animal cruelty and in favor of more stringent legal protections.
As the campaign gains momentum, Oldham Cats Rescue continues to call on the community to join in their advocacy, aiming to ensure that the legal system provides adequate protection to all animals, honoring the dignity and worth of each creature.
Greater Manchester Police has been contacted for further comments on the case.
