Fox hunting with hounds was banned in England and Wales under the Hunting Act 2004. Trail hunting continues and enforcement challenges mean some illegal hunting persists.
Traditional fox hunting with hounds caused significant welfare suffering. Foxes pursued by hounds experience acute fear and physiological stress during the chase. Killing by hounds involves tearing rather than a quick death. Trail hunting is legal but concerns exist that it provides cover for illegal hunting. Where illegal hunting occurs, fox welfare is directly affected. The Hunting Act has been effective but imperfectly enforced. Regulatory and enforcement improvements are needed to ensure the welfare protection intended by the legislation is delivered in practice.