Pet Shop Licence
Licence Summary
To run a business selling pet animals you need a licence from the local authority. This includes all commercial selling of pet animals, including pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet.
Fees
A fee, determined by the local authority, will be payable on application.
Guidance
The Scottish Government has issued guidance specifically for Pet Sellers (Opens in a new window or downloads a file).
Eligibility Criteria
Any person subject to a disqualification order of a type listed in Regulation 13 of the Regulations is not permitted to apply for a licence under the Regulations.
Application Evaluation Process
Local authorities must have regard to the following when considering an application for a pet sellers licence:
- that animals will be kept in suitable accommodation, for example in regards to temperature, size, lighting, ventilation and cleanliness
- adequate food and drink will be provided to the animals and they will be visited at suitable intervals
- that any mammalian animals will not be sold too young
- that steps are taken to prevent disease spreading among the animals
- that adequate fire and emergency provisions are in place
Conditions can be attached to a licence to ensure that the above are complied with.
Consumer Complaint
We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, Citizens Advice Consumer Service (Opens in a new window or downloads a file) will give you advice. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre (Opens in a new window or downloads a file).
Contact
If you require further information please Contact Us.