Campaign to give cats the same legal protections as dogs gathers pace
A campaign to launch 'Hugo's Law' named after a much loved Edinburgh pet has gained support in the Scottish Parliament
A campaign to give cats the same legal protection as dogs is picking up pace.
It comes after a much loved pet in Edinburgh's West End was killed after being hit by a car.
Hugo, who was well known in the community, was hit and left to die in April, but the driver did not inform anyone of the incident.
Legally, drivers are not required to get in touch with the Police or a vet if they hit a cat.
But there is a requirement to do this with dogs, sheep and even badgers and foxes.
Campaigners want to see 'Hugo's Law' introduced to bring parity.
Now the movement has got backing in Holyrood, with Edinburgh MP Miles Briggs throwing his support behind it.
He said: said, “I wholeheartedly support the campaign for ‘Hugo’s Law’ to change the law on stopping for animals to include cats.
“A cat’s life is worth no less than a dog’s and a change in the law would increase the chances of survival for cats who are struck by vehicles.
“It is imperative we include cats so that more people are not left bereft like Hugo’s family.
“A change in the law would bring comfort to Hugo’s family and other cat owners who will be safe in the knowledge that tragic incidents such as Hugo’s passing can be avoided, and that is why I am seeking a meeting with government officials to push this through”.