Animal activities and welfare

You need an animal activities licence for activities such as running a pet shop, hiring of horses, keeping dangerous wild animals and dog breeding.

Complete the relevant form below if:

• you are applying for a licence for the first time
• you are applying for a variation
• you are renewing your licence (and include any changes since your last licence application)

Apply for an animal activities licence

Renew your animal activities licence

You can use the form to apply for different types of animal licence. 

Payment must be made within 14 days of submitting the application. Any applications that are not accompanied by payment will be deleted after this time.

• dangerous wild animals. It is an offence to keep any animal listed in the Schedule of the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 without a licence
• dog breeding. This is any premises where more than two bitches are kept for the purpose of breeding for sale. These establishments are covered by the Breeding of Dogs Act 1973
• exhibiting animals. The welfare of performing animals is covered by the general provisions in the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The training and exhibition of performing animals is further regulated by the Performing Animals (Regulation) Act 1925
• hiring of horses. This is a place where horses or ponies are hired out for riding or used for riding instruction
• pet shop licence. Pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet are included in this licence

You need to apply separately for a dog boarding licence (see below)

Apply for dog boarding licence

Payment details will be given in your confirmation email once you have submitted your application.