Pet Shops

Anyone wishing to open a pet shop requires a licence from the Council under the Pet Animals Act 1951.  This is defined broadly as a premises (including a private dwelling) from which animals are sold as pets. The Council carries out inspections of premises to ensure conditions are suitable, after which a licence is issued.

Conditions include:

• Having accommodation and environment which is suitable to their species including size, temperature, lighting, ventilation, cleanliness and exercise facilities
• Ensuring stocking densities are not exceeded as specified on the licence
• Ensuring stock for sale is in good health
• Ensuring adequate supplies of food and drink
• Having pet care leaflets or written instructions available to customers

Buying a pet from a pet shop

All pet shops selling pet animals are required to be licenced by the local authority and should dsisply a current pet shop licence.

We would recommend that before buying any animal:

• You are happy with the advice given by the pet shop on how to handle, feed and keep the animal
• You are sure that the animal is in good health and has been well looked after
• You have adequate space, time and facilities to care for the animal

An application form is avaliable and the current fees can be checked with the link below.  If you are a new applicant then you are advised to discuss your proposal with us before applying.

• Pet Shop Application Form
• Fees and Charges