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Licensing of Animal Premises

By law, pet shops, boarding kennels, dog breeders, dangerous wild animal collections, catteries, home boarding for dogs and horse riding establishments must all be licensed by the local authority. To be licensed, they must meet strict guidelines set out to provide the best care for the animals and for the staff who work with them.

At least once a year the Dog Warden (or a Vet, in the case of Riding Schools) will inspect each licensed premises to see that all standards are met. Our Dog Warden, who often works in conjunction with the RSPCA, is responsible for dealing with complaints about the welfare of animals kept at licensed establishments. Complaints about unlicensed establishments are also investigated.

For any other animal welfare concern, contact the RSPCA.

Web: RSPCA Opens in a new window
RSPCA National emergency telephone number: 08705 555999

Do I need a licence?

You do need a licence if:

You run a business selling animals for pets, you need a pet shop license, even if you are based at home. (Pet Animals Act 1951).
You breed dogs, and sell the puppies (Breeding & Sale of Dogs (Welfare) Act 1999).
If you keep animals named on the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976.
You look after other peoples' cats or dogs as a business (Boarding Establishments Act).
If you look after other peoples' dogs in your own home (Boarding Establishments Act).
You own horses, and teach people to ride (Riding Est Act 1964 and 1970).