Licence summary
To run a boarding kennel or cattery, you need a licence from Southampton City Council. The number of dogs and cats that may be accommodated will be specified on the licence along with other specific conditions.
Eligibility criteria - exclusions
Any persons disqualified by virtue of the Animal Boarding Establishments act 1963, the Pet Animals act 1951, the Protection of Animals Act 1911, or under any of sections 34(2), (3) or (4) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Fees:
Animal welfare fees including animal boarding establishments licence.
Note for applicants:
All animal licences that we issue are determined by the Animal Welfare Officer based on principles of good animal welfare and veterinary advice. An inspection will be made before any application is granted. We recommend applicants make contact with the animal welfare officer before applying. 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 case of fire or 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.
Application evaluation process
Once we receive a completed application and payment, within 14 days we will:
Acknowledge receipt of your application;
Send standard conditions as a guide if appropriate. N.B. Conditions of the licence will be finalised after a Vet's inspection and may be very different from standard conditions if there are specialised requirements.
Contact you (the applicant) to arrange the veterinary inspection.
Within the next 21 days we will:
After the inspection, the vet may issue recommendations. A second inspection may then be required to ensure that the recommendations have been followed.
Within the next 21 days we will determine the application in one of two ways:
1. Grant the licence with conditions or
2. Refuse the licence and give reasons.
Applicants can appeal to the Magistrate's Court against refusal to issue a licence or against conditions of the licence.
Will tacit consent apply?
No an inspection will need to be made before any application is granted in order to safeguard animal welfare and public health and protection.
Apply online or download, complete the form and post to the address below:
Tell us about a change to your existing circumstances or renew your licence
Contact details:
Regulatory Services (Commercial)
Southampton City Council
Floor 5
One Guildhall Square
Southampton
SO14 7FP
Tel: 023 8083 3002
Email: environmental.health@southampton.gov.uk
What if I am refused a licence or disagree with the conditions?
There is a right of appeal to the Magistrates' Court
Trade associations
Pet Care Trust (PCT)
Southampton City Council
