Pet Care Licensing in England: A Practical Guide for PetProHub Clients

Whether you’re running a dog walking service, offering home boarding, or launching a full-scale pet daycare, understanding licensing laws in England isn’t optional—it’s essential. Since 2018, the rules have become much stricter, aiming to protect animal welfare and ensure professionalism across the industry.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know in a clear, practical way.

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🐾 The Legal Framework: What Law Covers Pet Care?

Pet care businesses in England are regulated under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018.

These regulations introduced a single system called the Animal Activity Licence, replacing older, fragmented licensing rules.

They apply to a wide range of services, including:

• Dog boarding (kennels and home boarding)
• Dog daycare
• Cat boarding
• Selling animals as pets
• Dog breeding
• Hiring out horses
  

If you’re operating any of these as a business, you’ll likely need a licence.

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🐶 Do You Actually Need a Licence?

In simple terms:
👉 If you’re getting paid to care for animals, you may need a licence.

You typically need a licence if you:

• Board dogs or cats (even in your own home)
• Offer dog daycare services
• Run a kennel or cattery
• Sell animals as part of a business

Even part-time or small-scale operations count if money changes hands—whether it’s a full business or a side hustle.

When You Don’t Need a Licence

Some services fall outside licensing rules:

• Dog walking, but always check with your local authority, particularly in London, as some do require a licence for this
• Pet sitting in the owner’s home

These are generally exempt because the animal remains in its usual environment.

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🏠 Types of Pet Care Licences

Different services require different licences. The main categories include:

1. Home Boarding Licence

For keeping dogs in your own home overnight.

2. Dog Day Care Licence

For daytime care only (no overnight stays).

3. Kennel or Cattery Licence

For businesses operating dedicated boarding facilities.

All of these fall under the same legal framework but have specific conditions tailored to each activity.

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📋 What Does the Licensing Process Involve?

Getting licensed isn’t just paperwork—it’s a full inspection and compliance process.

Step-by-step overview:

1. Apply to your local council
2. Pay an application fee
3. Undergo an inspection of your premises
4. Meet welfare and safety standards
5. Receive a licence (typically valid for 1–3 years)

Local authorities aim to process applications within around 10 weeks, though this can vary.

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⭐ Star Ratings System (1–5 Stars)

Licensed businesses are rated from 1 to 5 stars, based on:

• Animal welfare standards
• Risk level
• Compliance history

Higher-rated businesses can receive longer licences and may gain a competitive advantage.

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🐕 Key Licensing Requirements

To get approved, your business must meet strict criteria, including:

Welfare Standards

• Clean, safe, and secure environment
• Suitable space and enrichment
• Proper feeding and care routines

Staffing & Experience

• Adequate staff-to-animal ratios
• Evidence of training or qualifications

For example, kennel guidance suggests at least one staff member per 15 dogs under higher standards.

Record Keeping

• Animal records
• Emergency procedures
• Health and vaccination logs

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⚠️ Penalties for Operating Without a Licence

Running a licensable pet business without approval is illegal.

Potential consequences include:

• Fines
• Prosecution
• Possible imprisonment in serious cases

Beyond legal risks, unlicensed businesses often lack insurance and credibility—making it harder to attract responsible clients.

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💷 How Much Does a Licence Cost?

Costs vary by council, but typically include:

• Application fee
• Licence fee (if approved)

For example, some councils charge several hundred pounds depending on the service type.

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🚀 Why Licensing Matters (Beyond Legal Compliance)

Licensing isn’t just a hurdle—it’s a business asset.

It helps you:

• Build trust with pet owners
• Demonstrate professionalism
• Improve safety and care standards
• Stand out in a competitive market

Customers are increasingly checking whether businesses are licensed before booking.

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📝 Final Thoughts

Pet care licensing in England is designed to protect animals and raise standards across the industry. If you’re running—or planning to start—a pet care business, getting licensed is a critical step.

The key takeaway?
👉 If you’re caring for pets for payment, check with your local council if you need a licence.