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Animal welfare

Information about animal welfare and how to report a mistreated animal 

Keeping pets

If you keep pets, or are thinking of getting a pet, you'll have a legal responsibility under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 to meet their welfare needs, such as:

  • providing shelter and somewhere comfortable to rest
  • providing fresh water and the right type of food
  • protecting them from pain, suffering, injury and disease; making sure they receive veterinary treatment when required

You can find out more about pet care on the RSPCA website.

Animals in distress

We licence animal establishments to make sure they meet set regulations, and animals are treated fairly. You can find out more on our animal licensing pages.

If you spot animal cruelty, you can report this to the RSPCA on their emergency number 0300 1234 999. 

Some situations can appear distressing, but may not actually be breaking the law. If you're in any doubt if you should report the cruelty, please refer to the RSPCA guidance first.

Stray dogs

If you find a stray or lost dog, and it's confined, we may be able to collect it. Please see our lost and stray dogs page for more information.