Licence summary
To run a boarding kennel or cattery, you need a licence from us. The number of dogs and cats that may be accommodated will be specified on the licence along with other specific conditions.
We may authorise one of our officers, a veterinary surgeon or practitioner to inspect licensed premises.
Eligibility criteria
You must not be disqualified from any of the following at the time of your application:
- keeping an animal boarding establishment
- keeping a pet shop under the Pet Animals Act 1951
- keeping animals under the Protection of Animals (Amendment) Act 1954
- owning, keeping, being involved in the keeping or being entitled to control or influence the keeping of animals, dealing in animals or transporting or being involved in the transportation of animals under the Animals Welfare Act 2006
- owning, keeping, dealing in or transporting animals under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.
Regulation summary
Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963 (chapter 43)
Application evaluation process
The following criteria will be considered when the application is being evaluated:
- That the animals will be kept in suitable accommodation at all times. Suitable accommodation takes into account the construction and size of the accommodation, the number of animals to be housed in it, facilities for exercising the animals, cleanliness and temperature, lighting and ventilation provisions.
- That suitable food, drink and bedding materials will be provided and that the animals are exercised and visited regularly.
- That steps are taken to prevent and control the spread of disease among the animals and that isolation facilities are in place.
- That adequate protection is provided to the animals in the case of fire and other emergencies.
- That a register is kept. The register should contain a description of all animals received, their arrival and departure date and the name and address of the owner. The register should be available to be inspected at any time by a local authority officer, veterinary surgeon or practitioner.
Fees will be payable for applications and we may attach conditions to the licence.
How to apply
New applications:
You can download an application form from this page. The cost of the licence is reviewed in April each year. If you think you need a licence and you would like further information or you would like to find out the cost of the licence, please contact us on 0113 247 7791 before applying.
You can also apply and pay for your licence on-line.
Changes to your existing licence:
If you wish to make changes to your licence you must let us know. Please contact us using the contact details on this page or use the on-line service.
Renewing your licence:
If you wish to renew your licence please contact us using the contact details on this page or use the on-line service.
Will tacit consent apply?
No. It is in the public interest that the authority must process your application before it can be granted. If you have not heard from us within 28 days, please contact us using the contact details on this page.
Failed application redress
Please contact us in the first instance.
Licence holder redress
Please contact us in the first instance.
Trade associations
Pet Care Trust (PCT)
Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons