DOG owners and animal lovers across Wales are being urged to share their views as Dogs Trust launches its National Dog Survey 2026.

The survey, now in its fifth year, asks people about the role dogs play in their lives, the realities of dog ownership, and what changes they would like to see to improve welfare.

Dogs Trust, which has rehoming centres in Bridgend and Cardiff, says the survey is open to everyone, whether they own a dog, hope to have one in the future, or simply admire dogs from afar.

The charity says more than 1.4 million responses have been gathered since the survey began, helping shape its work supporting owners, improving welfare, and campaigning on issues affecting dogs across Wales and the wider UK.

The survey is open until Tuesday, June 30, and takes around 15 minutes to complete online.

Dogs Trust said previous responses have helped it develop dog food banks, launch its free Behaviour Support Line, and highlight the difficulties faced by renters with pets.

Last year, 342,957 people took part in the survey, sharing information about more than 423,175 dogs.

Among the findings, 80 per cent of respondents said their dog was their best friend, while 95 per cent of dog owners said having a dog was good for their mental health. The survey also found that 94 per cent of owners believed dogs should be treated as members of the family.

Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, said: “Being a dog owner means you are part of a wonderful community, and for our fifth annual National Dog Survey, we want to bring all of these experiences together.

“This year, we’re looking to dig deeper into the incredible commitment of owners and explore what our dogs mean to us.

“And it isn’t just dog owners we want to hear from. Whether you’ve always wanted a dog, are unsure if one fits your lifestyle, or simply prefer to admire them from afar, we want to hear from you.

“We’re calling on the people of Wales — don’t be left out. We want to hear your stories, from the funny bits and the tricky bits to the quirks that make dogs one of a kind.

“The insights from this year’s survey will help ensure Dogs Trust can support dogs and their owners, and help us all live the best lives possible, together.”

To take part in the National Dog Survey 2026, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/NDS.

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Dogs Trust is urging people in Wales to take part in its National Dog Survey 2026.

RSPCA CYMRU has called on the new Welsh Government to ensure animal welfare remains a political priority during the next Senedd term.

The charity has written an open letter to Llyr Gruffydd MS, the Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, urging ministers to deliver animal welfare commitments made in Plaid Cymru’s manifesto.

Those pledges included promoting responsible pet ownership and breeding, licensing animal rescues, and strengthening the rights of renters who wish to keep pets.

RSPCA Cymru says Wales has already made progress, including bans on snares and glue traps, mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses, legislation to ban greyhound racing, and moves towards regulating animal sanctuaries, rescues and rehoming centres.

Its Animal Kindness Index found that 75% of people in Wales describe themselves as animal lovers, the highest proportion in the UK. The same survey found that 85% of people in Wales believe animal welfare should be protected through legislation.

Billie-Jade Thomas, RSPCA Cymru’s Senior Public Affairs Manager said: “It’s clear that Wales is a nation of animal lovers and that animal welfare is important to so many people.

“We really do have the opportunity to make huge progress in our animal welfare standards in Wales under the new Welsh Government and we look forward to working with them to ensure every kind of animal in Wales has a good life.

“That starts with those at the helm of the new Welsh Government delivering on their manifesto commitments for animals.”

The charity is also calling for ministers to go further, including granting RSPCA inspectors limited statutory powers, making pet abduction a specific offence in Wales, regulating livery yards, tackling horse tethering, improving farm animal welfare, and introducing mandatory labelling on animal-derived products.

One of the more politically sensitive areas is bovine TB. The RSPCA says it supports efforts to eradicate the disease but wants a humane approach that does not involve badger culling.

Farming unions have previously argued that bovine TB has had a devastating impact on Welsh farms, with cattle slaughtered, businesses disrupted and families placed under serious financial pressure. They have called for a stronger eradication strategy and say any policy must be based on evidence and the practical realities facing farmers.

The issue is likely to remain one of the most difficult areas for the new minister, as animal welfare campaigners, farmers, vets and conservation groups continue to press for different approaches.

RSPCA Cymru is urging supporters to sign its open letter and says animal welfare must not be allowed to slip down the political agenda.

The charity is also encouraging people to take part in its Summer of Kindness campaign, which promotes simple, family-friendly ways to help animals.

CARDIGAN RNLI is inviting the community to enjoy an evening of music, food and fundraising at its fourth annual Sea Shanty and Street Food Festival.

The event will take place at Cardigan RNLI Lifeboat Station on Saturday, June 20, from 3:00pm to 9:00pm.

Organisers say the family-friendly festival will feature live music throughout the afternoon and evening, with performances from Cariad Sound, The Bad Latitudes Shanty Group, Howni Shanty Group and Blaenporth Male Voice Choir.

A wide range of food and drink will also be available from local vendors, including Manuka Asian Street Food, Dewi James BBQ, Pembrokeshire Wood Fired Pizza, Ice Green Vegan Ice Cream, Los Muñecos Mexican Street Food, Bluestones Coffee, Mantle Brewery and Cream Tea.

Tickets cost £5, with all proceeds going towards supporting Cardigan RNLI’s lifesaving work.

Bruce Harris, event organiser said: “Our Sea Shanty and Street Food Festival is a fantastic way to bring the community together while supporting the RNLI’s lifesaving work.

“There’s something for everyone, great music, brilliant local food and a wonderful atmosphere by the water.

“Every ticket sold helps our volunteer crew continue to save lives at sea, so we’re really looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible for a great evening in support of Cardigan Lifeboat Station.”