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Changes to help renters keep pets announced in King’s Speech
The King's Speech sets out the government's legislative plans for the coming months.
Tenants will have a new right to request a pet.

Renters could soon have greater rights when it comes to pet ownership under legislation announced by the new government in its first King’s Speech.

The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to give tenants the right to request a pet, which landlords will have to consider and will be unable to unreasonably refuse.

The bill will also allow landlords to request insurance to cover any potential damage from pets.

A similar change to the law had been proposed by the previous government as part of its own Renters (Reform) Bill. However, the legislation failed to make it through Parliament before the general election.

The new bill has been welcomed by charities such as the RSPCA, Dogs Trust and Cats Protection.

David Bowles, head of public affairs at the RSPCA, said: “We believe that the Renters’ Rights Bill will give tenants a legal right to have a pet, unless there is a justifiable reason not to do so - ending blanket bans that exist at present on the keeping of beloved companion animals in rental homes.

“The RSPCA has long campaigned for this change - as we believe this will stop many pet owners having to face the heartbreaking choice of choosing between finding accommodation and keeping their pet; and also offer countless new owners the chance to adopt rescue pets.”

However, some elements of the King’s Speech have been criticised within the veterinary profession. The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has expressed its disappointment over the lack of animal welfare legislation in the speech.

Anna Judson, president of the BVA, said: “Whilst we understand the new government has many challenges to tackle, it’s disappointing that today’s King’s Speech doesn't prioritise any of its election manifesto commitments to animal welfare or its plans to deliver improved trade with the EU through a proposed veterinary agreement.

“I urge the Prime Minister and his team to press on with this important work and the British Veterinary Association stands ready to ensure that the necessary detail is correct.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.