Animal Boarding Establishments (ABE)  

Any person keeping an ABE for cats and/or dogs is required to hold a licence issued by the Council under the Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963.  An application is made with the appropriate fee and an inspection is carried out. Once granted, conditions are added to the licence to ensure:

• Accommodation for the animals is suitable regarding construction, size, temperature, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness.
• The animals are supplied with suitable food, drink, bedding material and exercise.
• Reasonable precautions are taken to prevent and control spread of disease.
• Appropriate steps are taken to protect animals in case of fire or other emergency.
• A register is kept of all animals received into the establishment. The register should contain specified details.

Licences are renewable on an annual basis and a fee is payable.

Choosing the right Establishment

If you board your cat or dog when on holiday this should be with a licensed boarding kennels or cattery as these premises are inspected on an annual basis to check compliance with licence conditions.

The Council recommends you:

• Make a visit to view the kennels before hand as every establishment will be different.
• Make sure you are satisfied with the heating arrangements, feeding routines, exercise facilities, etc
• Ensure that the establishment is displaying a current licence issued by the local authority
• Do not forget to make sure vaccinations are up to date and that you take the record card with you when boarding your pet
• Ensure emergency contact details are given