Some Melton animal owners and carers will need licences from next month

The government will tighten rules for the monitoring of animals under The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018 from October 1.

Licences will be required from Melton Council by anyone selling animals as pets, including online sales, hiring out horses, breeding dogs, keeping or training animals for exhibitions and providing or arranging boarding for cats and dogs.

A new ‘Star Rating’ system will also be introduced for the various activities, similar to that used by food businesses, and those premises which meet additional higher standards could receive a better rating and a longer length licence.

Councillor Mal Sheldon, chairman of the council’s Place Committee, said: “We welcome these changes that help ensure that we do everything possible to monitor and regulate higher animal welfare standards, particularly with online sales of pets which has until now been unregulated.

“Melton Mowbray is the nation’s most pet-friendly town and it’s an accolade that we are incredibly proud of.

“These new regulations are another important step in raising standards in animal welfare across the nation.”

Check out the borough council’s website at www.melton.gov.uk for more information on fees, forms and guidance on the new animal licensing regulation.

Email the licensing team at [email protected] if you think the changes may affect your business or, if you would like any further information.