As the festive season approaches, Tendring District Council (TDC) is reminding residents that responsible pet ownership is a year-round commitment, not just for Christmas.

Animal lovers thinking of buying a pet for Christmas are urged to ensure that pet sellers are licensed before purchasing a pet.

This advice follows an increase in reports to TDC earlier this year of businesses allegedly operating in the district without the correct licence.

Councillor Adrian Smith, TDC’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “As we approach Christmas, it’s important to remember that pets are not just for the festive season – they require care and commitment all year round.

“I support the Dogs Trust message that people should not buy or give dogs as presents for Christmas.

“But it is essential that anyone who does buy an animal checks that operators have the necessary licence in place, as required by the Animal Welfare Regulations 2018.

“It ensures that certain criteria and animal welfare standards are met.

“Residents should be aware that some unlicensed operators may not have adequate insurance if they do not hold the appropriate licence.

“Before buying a pet, I would encourage residents to consider providing a loving new home to an animal from one of our district’s rescue and rehoming centres.”

Anyone conducting an animal-related activity with the intention of making a profit is now required by law to hold a licence if their income, not just profit, exceeds £1,000 a year.

Before buying a pet, prospective owners should verify that the seller is licenced.

The same applies to those offering animal boarding, day care services, riding lessons, pony rides, horses for loan, or animals for exhibition.

Lucy’s Law makes it illegal for anyone other than the breeder to sell a puppy or kitten in England.

TDC is the licensing and enforcing authority for a range of animal activities in Tendring.

A public register of licensed animal sellers and other businesses can be found on the TDC website at tendringdc.gov.uk/content/animal-licensing-registers.

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