DANGEROUS WILD ANIMALS
What animals are classified as being dangerous?
The list is lengthy, from Aardvarks to Wandering Spiders (lets hope they don’t wander too far!!), and is any dangerous wild animal(s) of a kind listed in the schedule publicised in the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976.
What exemptions are there?
Zoos, circuses and pet shops do not require dangerous wild animal licences (they require licences under different legislation).
What criteria do I need to satisfy to gain a licence?
Because of the diversity of the types of animals, accommodation provided for them, must be in all respects suitable as regards construction, size of quarters, exercising facilities, temperature, ventilation and cleanliness.
After an application is received a veterinary surgeon will be appointed by the Council to check that all is well and that they are satisfied that the owner is competent to take care of all aspects of the animal’s welfare. The veterinary surgeon’s fees are required to be paid by the applicant.
PET SHOP LICENCES
What criteria need to be fulfilled for the premises to be licensed as a Pet Shop?
Accommodation provided for animals, must be in all respects suitable as regards construction, size of quarters, exercising facilities, temperature, ventilation and cleanliness.
What types of animals can be sold?
- Dogs and cats (puppies and kittens)
- Smaller domesticated mammals e.g. Rabbits, Guinea pigs, gerbils, hamsters, rats and mice
- Larger domesticated animals e.g. Goats and pot bellied pigs
- Primates e.g. Marmosets
- Other mammals
- Parrots, parakeets and macaws
- Other birds
- Reptiles
- Amphibians
- Fish
Do I need to be qualified?
No, but you have to be familiar with the care and welfare of the animals sold. In respect of new applications at least one member of staff working in the licensed premises must hold a City and Guilds Pet Store Management Certificate.
Who looks after the animals when the shop is closed?
A licensee or designated Key Holder must at all times be within reasonable distance of the premises and available to visit the premises in case of emergency. A list of Key Holders must be lodged with the local police and fire brigade.
How much does the licence cost?
The licence fee is reviewed each year. See link opposite for the current fee.
How long does a licence last?
Till the 31st Dec in the first year, and then annually from 1st January to 31st December.
Can anybody buy a pet?
No. Any person under the age of sixteen years, unless that person is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, is not permitted to purchase a pet.
ANIMAL BOARDING ESTABLISHMENTS
Why do I need to be licensed?
A licence is necessary to ensure compliance with health and safety rules and to protect the welfare of the animals boarded.
What criteria need to be fulfilled for the premises to be licensed as an animal boarding establishment?
Accommodation provided for animals, must be in all respects suitable as regards construction, size of quarters, exercising facilities, temperature, ventilation and cleanliness.A visit from a Veterinary Surgeon is required in respect of an initial application. The applicant must pay the vet's fees.
Are dogs and cats permitted to share quarters?
Only dogs or cats from the same household are permitted to share compartments and then only if adequate space is available.
Do I need to be qualified run an animal boarding establishment?
No, but experience with animals is necessary.
Do I need planning permission for such a venture?
Probably. It is prudent to apply to the Planning Section of this Council to ensure that any planning permission necessary is obtained in advance.
How much will it cost?
The licence fee is reviewed each year. See link opposite for the current fee.
How long do the licences last for?
Animal boarding establishment licences run from the 1st January to the 31st December (or for the remainder of the year in which it was granted) in any one year. There is no reduction in the fee for part year licensing.