The flagship animal welfare plan also sets out tougher measures to tackle cruel breeding practices such as puppy farming.
This comes alongside proposals to ban trail hunting and tighten rules on low-welfare animal treatment.
Shock collars and pet protections
Ministers have confirmed a consultation will take place on banning electric shock collars, amid growing concern that the devices can cause physical harm and distress to pets. The strategy also includes plans for a public safety campaign to promote responsible dog ownership.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said the UK was “a nation of animal lovers”, adding that visits to centres such as Battersea Dogs and Cats Home highlighted the need for higher welfare standards for pets in the home and beyond.
Wider changes for farm and wild animals
The proposals build on recent laws cracking down on puppy smuggling and increasing penalties for livestock worrying. Further plans include phasing out colony cages for laying hens, moving away from pig farrowing crates and introducing more humane slaughter methods for farmed fish.
Wild animal measures include banning trail hunting, outlawing snare traps and introducing a closed hunting season for hares.
Responding to the announcement, RSPCA said the strategy could significantly improve the lives of millions of animals, calling it a strong step towards ending practices that cause unnecessary suffering.
