A new global campaign aimed at ending the chaining of dogs has been launched, with supporters invited to take part in a coordinated 5km walk to raise awareness and funds.
The Unchained Freedom Walk will take place on April 4 and marks the official launch of the Unchained campaign, founded by animal welfare campaigner Eduardo Goncalves, from Gosport, Hants. Participants are being encouraged to join the walk from wherever they are, in a nationwide and international show of support.
The initiative focuses on the welfare concerns linked to dogs being tethered for long periods, often for life. Organisers say the campaign aims to bring attention to the physical and psychological impact of chaining, while also supporting dogs already rescued from such conditions.
Funds raised will go towards the ongoing care of three rescue dogs, Sirius, and puppies Vinnie and Chuck, who were saved from severe neglect in Portugal during operations involving Goncalves. Sirius was found in a critical condition, chained to a concrete patch, while Vinnie and Chuck were born to a chained mother and kept in poor conditions during their early weeks.
Goncalves said the campaign is intended to address what he describes as a widespread but often overlooked issue. “Chaining is one of the most overlooked forms of animal cruelty, yet it causes immense suffering. Dogs are left isolated, exposed to the elements and denied everything that makes life worth living. Through the Freedom Walk, we want to raise awareness, change attitudes and help dogs like Sirius, Vinnie and Chuck who have already endured so much.”
The campaign has also attracted support from actor and animal welfare advocate Peter Egan and campaigner and veterinary surgeon Marc Abraham.
Marc said, “As a vet, I know just how profoundly cruel and damaging the chaining of dogs can be. Dogs are social, sentient beings who need freedom of movement, mental stimulation, and of course companionship to be physically and emotionally healthy. Chaining denies them all of that, and will often cause lasting psychological trauma, as well as serious medical problems.
“Unchained is campaigning for global change to end this outdated and inhumane practice once and for all. But we also need to look closer to home. The UK prides itself on being a nation of animal lovers, and that means we cannot afford grey areas in the law that allow animal cruelty to be excused or exploited. The rules must be strengthened, made crystal clear, and be enforceable, because no dog should ever be left to suffer at the end of a chain.”
Organisers say the campaign will continue beyond the launch event, with a focus on raising awareness and encouraging long-term change.
