TABLE A MOTION
Put animal welfare on your council's agenda with ready-to-adapt model motions, supporting evidence and practical guidance from the RSPCA.
TURN CONCERN INTO ACTION
A council motion can draw attention to an important issue, establish a shared position, and secure a commitment to practical action. It can also start a wider conversation with council officers, partners and residents about how animal welfare can be improved locally.
Our model motions give you a clear starting point. Each pack is designed to help you understand the issue, adapt the wording to your local circumstances, and make a constructive case for change.
EXPLORE OUR SUITE OF MODEL MOTIONS
RESPONSIBLE OWNERSHIP
Support education, early intervention and partnership working to encourage responsible dog ownership and prevent problems before they escalate.
PETS AS PRIZES
Help end the giving of animals as prizes and promote informed decisions about acquiring and caring for pets now and in the future.
FIREWORKS
Reduce the impact of fireworks on animals, people and communities through awareness, responsible events and practical local action.
FOOD AND FARMING
Use council purchasing power to improve farm animal welfare and support more sustainable, transparent and responsible food procurement.
WILDLIFE AND HABITATS
Protect wild animals and habitats through responsible land management, planning decisions, public education and strong, effective local partnerships.
PET-FRIENDLY HOUSING
Encourage pet-friendly housing policies that keep people and pets together while supporting responsible ownership and effective tenancy management.
AFTER SOMETHING ELSE?
We are constantly developing further model motions to help councillors act on priority and emerging animal welfare issues.
Speak to us if there is an issue you would like to raise in your council.
HOW TO USE A MODEL MOTION
Our model wording is designed to be adapted. Before submitting a motion:
1. Check your council's constitution, notice requirements and deadlines.
2. Review the proposed actions with relevant officers and local partners.
3. Add local evidence, examples or service information where available.
4. Identify any financial, legal or operational implications.
5. Build cross-party support and consider inviting a seconder or co-signatories.
6. Agree how progress will be monitored if the motion is passed.
The RSPCA can help you understand the policy context, identify supporting evidence and adapt the animal welfare content. Your council's democratic services team can advise on its formal requirements. on
The RSPCA can also help reinforce and share the news if your motion is successful.
NEED HELP WITH YOUR MOTION?
If you are preparing a motion, contact us early. We can discuss your idea, help identify relevant resources, and review the animal welfare content before it is submitted.
EXPLORE ANOTHER ROUTE
Looking for a policy template or help with an individual enquiry?
DO YOU WORK FOR A COUNCIL?
Visit our dedicated area for operational guidance, professional resources and local authority good practice.