Former Hartpury University student Vanessa Barnes has played a pivotal role in the development of a major new dog welfare initiative launched at the House of Lords last week.
On Tuesday 18 November, the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW) unveiled its new Innate Health Assessment (IHA) tool for dogs, a national voluntary framework designed to improve the health and welfare of flat-faced and other at-risk breeds. The launch event brought together leading figures from politics, veterinary science, research, and animal welfare organisations.
Vanessa, who completed Hartpury’s Postgraduate Diploma in Animal Welfare, Policy, and Legislation in 2022, has since gone on to become Legal Advisor for APGAW. Her expertise was central to the IHA’s development, and she is quoted extensively in the supporting materials for the project.
Representing Hartpury University at the event were Dr Wanda McCormick (Head of Animal and Agriculture) and Dr Helen Tedds (Lecturer in Animal Welfare), who joined an influential guest list including Prof Lord Alexander Trees (APGAW Co-Chair), Dr Neil Hudson MP (Co-Chair), Dr Danny Chambers MP (Vice-Chair), and key stakeholders from across the animal welfare sector such as the RSPCA, UFAW, and academic experts in canine health.
Dr Tedds said: “It’s fantastic to see a former Hartpury University student leading the way in national dog welfare policy. Vanessa’s contribution to the development of the IHA is an outstanding example of how our graduates are shaping the future of animal welfare and making meaningful impact across the sector.”
Dr McCormick, whose research focuses on dog health and welfare, added: “The introduction of the IHA is a significant step forward for improving the wellbeing of flat-faced breeds. It’s incredibly rewarding to see one of our graduates contributing to work that aligns so closely with our own research priorities at Hartpury University.”
The launch of the IHA tool has already received national media attention, including coverage in The Guardian, and highlights the growing importance of evidence-based frameworks to protect dog health and support responsible breeding practices.
Vanessa’s achievements are a powerful example of where a qualification in Animal Welfare, Policy, and Legislation can lead.
