A new initiative in Edinburgh aims to support pet-owning social housing tenants through a partnership between Dogs Trust, the People’s Postcode Lottery, and Manor Estates Housing Association, focusing on creating pet-friendly housing policies. As rental prices rise, many pet owners face challenges in finding suitable accommodations, prompting Dogs Trust to develop a Pet Friendly Housing Toolkit to assist other landlords. In related news, the Pet Abduction Act, which will take effect on August 24, recognizes pets as sentient beings and introduces harsher penalties for pet theft, with offenders facing up to five years in prison. This law has been welcomed by animal welfare advocates, who emphasize the emotional toll of pet theft on families. Dogs Trust encourages owners to take preventive measures to protect their pets from theft, such as ensuring proper identification and vigilance in public spaces. The combined efforts reflect a growing recognition of the importance of pets in people's lives and the need for supportive legislation and housing policies.