Licences are required to keep certain animals, including keep dangerous wild animals, and also for businesses that deal with animals, including dog walking and animal boarding.
Dog day boarders, keepers of exhibition animals and dog breeders must register with us. Anyone who does not register could be guilty of an offence.
Anyone who operates a business looking after dogs which is away from the dog and owners' homes during the day will need a licence. People who keep exhibition animals in the course of their business for educational or entertainment purposes will also need to register - this includes businesses such as falconry displays, dove releases, animal encounter experiences, or pat-a-pony days.
Licences are not required for pet sitting (where you visit the animal in its own home).
If you intend to keep dangerous wild animals - other than in a zoo, circus, licenced pet shop or places registered under the Animals Scientific Procedures Act 1986) - you must apply to Hillingdon Council for a licence.
A licence comes into force on the day on which it is granted and shall remain in force for 2 years and then expire.
Applicants must be over 18 years of age and must not have been disqualified from keeping any dangerous wild animal or have a conviction under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
As part of our online process, you may be asked to upload documents, such as a public liability insurance. You will not be able to complete and submit the application form without this information.
Before a licence is issued, we will appoint a veterinary inspector to carry out an inspection. If and when possible, the council will look to appoint a person who is specialist in the animal or animals that is wishing to be licensed. An additional fee will apply.
