Selling animals as pets

Any person or organisation selling animals as pets (or with the expectation of their being later resold as pets) in the course of a business including keeping animals in the course of a business with a view to their being so sold or resold.

The business of selling animals as pets does not apply to persons operating an animal welfare establishment (an animal sanctuary or rehoming centre), engaging in other animal rehoming activities or licensed as a dog, cat or rabbit breeder (the breeding licence they hold allows for the direct supply of animals as pets).

Legislation

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021, regulation 3 and Schedule 1, Part 1 of the regulations.

Guidance

This guidance applies in Scotland only, and is issued by the Scottish Ministers to assist applicants for or holders of a pet sellers licence to understand the requirements of the new Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021.

General conditions for animal activities licences

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021

Specific conditions for this licence

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021 - selling animals as pets

Fees

  • New licence - £222.40
  • Variation of licence - £171.10
  • Charitable discount – 50% (applies to registered Scottish Charities and SCIOs)
  • Licensing enforcement visit No. 1 - £196.75
  • Subsequent enforcement visits: charged at hourly rate of £30.45 in half-hourly increments
  • Veterinary inspection fees are re-charged in addition to the above

How to pay

Payment can be made by cheque (made payable to Argyll and Bute Council) submitted with your application to:

Environmental and Animal Health
Argyll and Bute Council
Kilmory
LOCHGILPHEAD
PA31 8RT

If you would prefer to pay by telephone or BACs please email  envhealth@argyll-bute.gov.uk with your contact details and someone will contact you to arrange payment.

How to apply

You can download an application form below, and either return it by post to:

Environmental and Animal Health
Argyll and Bute Council
Kilmory
LOCHGILPHEAD
PA31 8RT

or by email to envhealth@argyll-bute.gov.uk

Selling animals as pets application form (Microsoft Word)

Selling animals as pets application form (PDF)

If you have any questions, please contact Environmental Health by email envhealth@argyll-bute.gov.uk or telephone 01546 605519.

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