Pet Care Services West Midlands - UK Pet Care Licencing Requirements
UK Pet Care Licencing Requirements - PetProHub - Pet Care Services West Midlands
In England, any business that provides boarding for other people’s dogs or cats must hold a licence issued by their local authority. This requirement applies to dog home boarding, boarding kennels and catteries, and forms part of the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018, which came into force on 1 October 2018.
The regulations were introduced to improve animal welfare standards and ensure that businesses caring for pets meet strict safety, hygiene and welfare requirements.
Who Needs a Licence?
A licence is required if someone is running a business that:
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Boards dogs in kennels
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Boards cats in a cattery
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Provides home boarding for dogs in their own domestic property
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Arranges boarding for dogs or cats as part of a commercial service
This applies when the activity is carried out in the course of a business or with the intention of making a profit.
Pet sitters who care for animals in the pet’s own home generally do not require a boarding licence.
Local Authority Inspections and Star Ratings
Before a licence is granted, the local council will inspect the premises to ensure the business meets the required welfare standards. Inspectors assess factors such as:
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Accommodation and space requirements
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Cleanliness and hygiene procedures
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Safety and security of the premises
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Feeding, exercise and enrichment routines
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Record keeping and emergency procedures
Licensed businesses are then given a star rating (1–5 stars) based on the standards they meet and their level of experience and compliance. Higher ratings can allow licences to be granted for longer periods.
Why Licensing Matters
Licensing provides reassurance to pet owners that a boarding provider is operating legally and meeting recognised animal welfare standards. Businesses that operate without the appropriate licence may face enforcement action, fines or prosecution.
Choosing a licensed provider helps ensure your pet receives safe, responsible and professional care while you are away.
Home Boarding for Dogs
Home boarding allows dogs to stay in a family home environment rather than in kennels. Dogs live in the carer’s home and are typically treated as part of the household during their stay.
Because dogs are living in a domestic setting, local authorities require strict limits and conditions, including:
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A maximum number of dogs allowed to stay at one time
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Suitable space inside the home and secure outdoor areas
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Safe separation of dogs where necessary
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A daily routine including exercise, enrichment and supervision
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Written permission from landlords or mortgage providers if applicable
Home boarding is often preferred by owners whose dogs are used to a home environment or who may struggle in a kennel setting.
Boarding Kennels
Boarding kennels are purpose-built facilities designed to house multiple dogs in individual kennel units.
To obtain a licence, kennels must meet detailed welfare standards such as:
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Minimum kennel size requirements
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Separate sleeping and exercise areas
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Proper heating, ventilation and drainage
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Strict cleaning and disease control procedures
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Staff supervision and emergency care plans
Kennels can be a good option for dogs that are comfortable in structured environments and are used to staying in kennel accommodation.
Catteries
Catteries provide specialised boarding accommodation for cats. Because cats are territorial animals, they are typically housed in individual cat pens or units rather than shared spaces.
Licensed catteries must provide:
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Secure individual accommodation for each cat or household group
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Separate sleeping areas and exercise platforms
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Appropriate ventilation, temperature control and lighting
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Daily cleaning and hygiene management
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Enrichment and monitoring for each cat
Many catteries are designed specifically to minimise stress and provide a calm environment for cats during their stay.