Kent Law School alumnus, Jack Sullivan, recently appeared live on BBC Breakfast to discuss a national campaign that aims to transform how pets are recognised in law. The appearance, broadcast on 7th April 2025, was a proud moment for Jack, who now works as a solicitor for Cooper and Co Solicitors, a national specialist animal law firm based in Canterbury. He is also a specialist lecturer on the Law (Integrated Master’s in Solicitors’ Practice) MLaw course at Kent Law School.
The campaign, launched in March 2025, was inspired by Jack’s growing frustration with unjust outcomes in legal cases involving beloved pets.
“Under current UK law, pets are treated no differently to a chair or a table. They are considered property,” Jack explained. “But we know they are so much more than that. They are family. And yet in pet custody disputes, I have seen animals rehomed with the party that is clearly far less able to care for them, simply because the court is not required to consider the animal’s welfare. Similarly, in cases where a pet has been injured or killed due to somebody else’s negligence, owners often receive a token sum, sometimes as little as fifty pounds, because that is the lowly extent of the pet’s value on the open market. But to their families, every pet is priceless.”
The campaign calls for a series of specific changes in legislation that would help shift how pets are recognised in law. These reforms would require courts to consider a pet’s welfare in legal disputes and allow for more meaningful compensation when they are harmed by someone else’s actions. It is hoped that the specific changes sought would help recognise that society views their pets as family, not property.
Jack’s national television appearance was made even more memorable by the presence of his dog Mimi, who accompanied him in the studio.
“Mimi is not always the best behaved. She is a very spoilt pooch! But during the live interview, she remained incredibly calm despite the bright studio lights and cameras moving around us. She absolutely stole the show. Backstage, she made the most of the green room and got used to the diva lifestyle, with staff offering her water, treats, and lots of attention. I think she would be quite happy doing the media circuit full time.”
The campaign has already gained strong public support and significant media interest. Jack hopes it continues to encourage discussion and reflection within the legal profession, especially among students and those entering the field.
“It is easy to think of law as something you simply apply, but we forget how exciting it is to shape the law too. As lawyers, we have powerful tools at our disposal. Using those tools to push for change that truly improves lives is incredibly rewarding.”
Jack’s journey from Kent Law School to national television is a powerful reminder of how varied and meaningful a legal career can be.
“Besides signing the petition, I hope this campaign inspires others, especially aspiring lawyers, to think creatively. Your legal skills can be used for so much more than traditional practice. If there is something you care about, something you want to change, do not wait. Get involved. You never know where your journey might take you.”
Lisa Dickson, Head of Kent Law School, explains that ‘Jack’s work demonstrates how law can evolve to reflect changing social values. His campaign combines legal insight with public engagement to challenge how we define our relationship with animals. We’re enormously proud of his work and the positive impact he’s making.’
You can hear more from Jack when he delivers one of four free webinars this year as part of Kent Law School’s sixth annual Summer of Law webinar series. More information and sign up here.