How boarding licensing works

If someone looks after other people's dogs or cats as a business, the law says they need a licence from their local council, and that includes home boarders.

England

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 cover kennels, catteries, home boarding and dog day care. Councils inspect before granting a licence and give a star rating.

Scotland

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021 require boarding businesses, including home boarders, to hold a council licence.

Wales

Boarding is licensed by councils under the Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963, with Welsh Government guidance for home boarding and day care.

Northern Ireland

Councils license boarding establishments under the Animal Boarding Establishments Act (Northern Ireland) 1974.

What licences cover

• Maximum number of animals
• Space, cleanliness, heating and exercise
• Staffing, records and emergency plans
• Vaccination and health checks for animals boarded

Rules can change, so always check your council's website for current requirements. This page is general information, not legal advice.