Cats Protection has thanked Islanders and supporters across the UK after its campaign to reform roadside animal laws and better protect cats exceeded 176,000 signatures nationwide.
The parliamentary petition, which calls for changes to legislation surrounding animals involved in road traffic collisions, has attracted widespread backing from across the country.
On the Isle of Wight alone, 324 people have signed the petition so far, with 186 signatures coming from Isle of Wight East and a further 138 from Isle of Wight West.
Using national accident figures published by PetPlan in 2006 and accounting for population growth since then, campaigners estimate that more than 600 cats a year could be involved in road traffic collisions on the Isle of Wight.
Many animals could potentially be saved if assistance is provided quickly, but campaigners say too many drivers fail to stop, leaving injured cats suffering at the roadside. They argue the emotional impact on owners can be profound, with cats increasingly viewed as members of the family in the same way as dogs.
The petition has seen a rapid rise in support, growing from around 60,000 signatures to more than 176,000 in just 10 days. Support from major social media accounts, including Lupin in London, has helped raise awareness of the campaign.
The campaign has also received national media coverage, with reports appearing on GB News, the Daily Express, MSN and the South Wales Argus.
Cats Protection is now making a final push to reach 200,000 signatures before the petition closes on Wednesday 17th June.
A spokesperson said:
“We would like to express our gratitude to Islanders for helping our parliamentary petition to reform roadside animal laws and protect cats pass 176,000 signatures.
“The support shown over the past few weeks has been incredible and demonstrates just how strongly people feel about improving protection for cats involved in road traffic collisions.
“With just days remaining, we are making one final push to reach 200,000 signatures before the petition closes on Wednesday 17th June.”
The petition can be signed online at https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/750612.
I didn’t even know there was a petition! Gonna sign it now
thank you IE