Dogs and cats boarding

If you are looking to run a boarding kennel or cattery, you need to apply for a licence from us.

Who can apply

You can apply to us if you have not been disqualified from any of the following at the time of the 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, or being entitled to control or influence the keeping of animals
• 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

Conditions

We may inspect your premises before giving you a licence, and at any time after your licence is granted.

You'll need to show that the animals you look after are:

• kept in suitable accommodation
• provided with adequate food, drink and bedding
• regularly exercised
• safeguarded in an emergency
• protected from infectious disease - this includes providing isolation facilities

Record keeping

You'll also need to keep a register containing a description of all animals received. This should include their arrival and departure date and name and address of the owner. The register should be available to inspect at any time by a local authority officer, vet or practitioner.

How to apply

Please contact us to apply.

What it costs

Animal Boarding Establishments Licence (initial or renewal) excluding vet fees - vets fees are charged in addition to the fees below based on full cost recovery:

This is an annual licence that runs from January to December, renewal will be needed each year.

Failed applications and appeals

In the first instance, please contact us if you have a problem with an application.

Any applicant that is refused a licence can appeal to their local magistrates court. You can also appeal to the court if you wish to appeal against a condition attached to your licence.

If you have any concerns about an animal boarding establishment, please see our animal welfare pages.