Important info for dog owners​

Important info for dog owners

In late 2018 new government legislation was introduced, to ensure dog boarders obtain a license from their local council to home dog board, this will give the dog owner peace of mind that the boarders property is secure, and the facilities the boarder offers your dog has been deemed suitable by their council. It is now a criminal offence to look after dogs without this license, as a dog boarder could be closed down immediately should they be operating without one.

If you leave your dog with an unlicensed boarder:
 
Your dog could be taken by the council, the boarding business could face severe penalties including unlimited fines or imprisonment, and your insurance would likely be void, leaving you no recourse for accidents or injuries. Unlicensed boarding poses significant risks to your pet’s safety, welfare, and your own financial protection. 
 
Risks for you and your dog:

  • No insurance recourse: Unlicensed boarders cannot get the required comprehensive insurance, leaving you with no financial protection or legal recourse if your dog is injured or becomes ill while in their care. 
  • Council intervention: If there are welfare concerns, the local authority could remove your pet from the unlicensed premises. 
  • Lack of professional standards: Licensed boarders must meet strict standards for accommodation, care, and safety, which unlicensed operators may not.
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Consequences for the unlicensed dog boarder:

  • Fines and imprisonment: The operator can face unlimited fines or up to six months in prison, or both, for operating an animal boarding establishment without a license. 
  • Disqualification: They may be disqualified from operating another animal boarding establishment for a period determined by the court. 
  • Business closure: The local authority can also revoke their license if it is found they are not meeting required standards. 

How to check if a dog boarder is licensed:

  • Ask for the license: Licensed establishments are required to display their license and should be happy to show it to you along with their public liability insurance. 
  • Check with your local council: You can verify the license status of any boarding business by contacting your local council’s animal welfare team or checking their public licensing lists.
For further information please click onto the following link below

 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/boarding-for-cats-or-dogs-licence-england


Applies to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for Home Dog Boarding