Ban on third party puppy sales announced
An outright ban would mean puppies and kittens could no longer be bought from pet shops.
Third party sales of puppies and kittens will be banned in England, the government has announced.
Defra has published a consultation on proposals for an outright ban, meaning puppies and kittens could no longer be bought from pet shops. Potential owners would have to buy or adopt their new pet from a breeder or rehoming centre.
Environment secretary Michael Gove said: “A ban on third party sales will ensure the nation’s much-loved pets get the right start in life. I pay tribute to the Lucy’s Law campaign, spearheaded by PupAid, Care And Respect Includes All Dogs (CARIAD), and Canine Action UK, who have fought tirelessly for this step.
“People who have a complete disregard for pet welfare will no longer be able to profit from this miserable trade.”
The proposals form part of a series of government measures to tackle puppy farming, including a ban on the sale of underage puppies and kittens and steps to address the breeding of dogs with severe genetic disorders.
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
