Banning third party sales of pets in England: call for evidence
Detail of outcome
We received just over 300 responses to this call for evidence. Around 70% provided arguments in favour of a ban and less than 10% provided arguments against.
Concerns were raised about third-party sales such as lack of socialisation, increased risk of disease and increased behavioural issues.
Evidence was provided on the effect a ban would have on the pet industry and whether such a ban would improve animal welfare. There was also a view that the new licensing regulations could be allowed to bed in before additional action is taken. A number of organisations suggested that third-party sellers might seek to present themselves as rehoming charities in order to escape the ban.
We’ve used this evidence to develop our proposals. We’re consulting on our plans to introduce a ban on commercial third-party sales of puppies and kittens in England.
Original call for evidence
Call for evidence description
We’re inviting evidence from all stakeholders and experts on the effect of introducing a ban on third party sales of puppies and kittens in England. This ban would mean that pet shops, pet dealers and other outlets and licensed sellers of puppies and kittens would be unable to sell these pets unless they themselves have bred them. We want to know:
- whether the ban should be made
- how the ban should apply
- what specific measures might be adopted
- what other issues should be considered
At the moment, we only want people to send us evidence which will specifically help us understand the effect of introducing a ban, and any limitations of doing so. We do not want people to send us their wider opinions at this stage.
Documents
Updates to this page
Last updated 22 August 2018 + show all updates
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Added a summary of the responses.
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Updated to make it clearer that this applies to puppies and kittens only.
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First published.