National Campaigns
Creating Change for Animals
The NSPCA works to create lasting change for animals by tackling some of the most significant animal welfare issues facing Ireland today.
Drawing on the expertise of our inspectors, veterinary professionals, rehabilitation teams and animal welfare specialists, we campaign for stronger protections, better welfare standards and meaningful legislative reform.
From improving breeding regulations and protecting horses to advocating for wildlife and greyhound welfare, our campaigns aim to address the root causes of animal suffering and drive long-term change.
The campaigns below highlight some of the NSPCA’s current advocacy priorities. While these issues are receiving particular focus, our work extends across many areas of animal welfare. Through ongoing policy development, stakeholder engagement and legislative advocacy, we work to improve protections for all animals across Ireland.
Stop Animal Suffering During Transport
The National SPCA is calling on EU representatives to strengthen animal welfare protections in the revision of the EU Transport Regulation. Current rules leave millions of animals vulnerable to long journeys, extreme temperatures and transport while young, pregnant or otherwise at risk. We urge policymakers to introduce stronger, science-based standards that reduce journey times, protect vulnerable animals and help end unnecessary suffering during live transport.
Dog Breeding Establishments
Ireland’s dog breeding legislation is currently under review, presenting a significant opportunity to improve welfare standards for breeding dogs and puppies. The NSPCA is engaging with Government and decision-makers to ensure animal welfare remains at the heart of the new legislation. Our focus includes stronger breeding standards, improved enforcement, greater accountability and measures that help prevent irresponsible breeding practices.
Sulky Activity on Public Roads
The NSPCA is campaigning for an end to sulky activity on public roads. Recent incidents have highlighted the serious risks that unregulated road racing poses to both horses and public safety. We are calling for stronger protections, improved enforcement and long-term solutions that prioritise equine welfare. More than 10,350 people have already supported our campaign by signing our public petition.
Carriage Horses
The welfare of carriage horses in busy urban environments remains a significant concern. The NSPCA is advocating for legislative reform to address ongoing welfare and public safety issues associated with horse-drawn carriage operations. We continue to gather evidence, engage with policymakers and raise awareness of the need for meaningful change.
Greyhound Welfare
The NSPCA continues to advocate for higher welfare standards, greater accountability and increased transparency within the greyhound racing industry.
Our concerns include breeding practices, traceability, lifelong welfare and the treatment of greyhounds once their racing careers end. We also believe there should be greater scrutiny of public funding provided to the industry.
Ending Fox Hunting with Dogs for Sport
The NSPCA is campaigning for a legal ban on the hunting of foxes with dogs for sport in Ireland. We believe practices that cause unnecessary suffering for recreation have no place in modern society. With growing public support for reform and legislative progress in Northern Ireland, we continue to advocate for stronger protections for wildlife.
