Exclusive Brethren Church Orders Global Removal of All Pets

Aftermath of Dog Attack Leads to Controversial Directive

"If I'm asked to choose between my church and the dog, it's going to be the dog."
— A current member of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church

The Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, also known as the Exclusive Brethren, has issued a directive to its approximately 50,000 global members to remove all pets from their households. The order follows a dog attack on a relative of church leader Bruce Hales in April 2025, which required stitches.

The instruction was read at closed meetings on May 2, 2025, in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and other locations.

The Directive

The church leadership states that owning pets, particularly dogs, is "clearly wrong" and references past teachings against animals. Members are required to:

• Dispose of all pets, including dogs, cats, birds, and mice
• Then confess to the church assembly

Multiple current and former members report that some pets have already been euthanized, including a kitten in New Zealand.

Some members have expressed intent to defy the order. One Victorian member stated they would choose their service dog over the church. Members describe feeling pressured due to the church's strict control over daily life.

Historical Precedent

The church has a history of pet bans. A similar purge occurred in the 1960s, documented in newspapers and academic sources. Former member Joy Nason recalled being ordered to euthanize her cat in 1963.

In the 1960s, some pets were reportedly killed at home using ether, by drowning, shooting, or clubbing. Even guide dogs for blind members were targeted.

"Normally, we only get them for elections and things."
— A current member, on the church's public engagement

Church Response

The church denies condoning animal cruelty and claims the recent message was a reminder of an established principle. It also denies the 1960s purge occurred.

"The church would never condone cruelty to any living creature."
— Church spokesperson

Broader Context

The church has attracted scrutiny for its political involvement, including campaigning for the Liberal Party, and was raided by the Australian Tax Office in 2024.