Battersea celebrates landmark win for tenants.
A new law giving renters the right to request a pet, which a landlord cannot unreasonably refuse, has passed its final stage in parliament.
The passage of the Renters’ Rights Bill brings an end to blanket pet bans in rental properties across England, enabling millions of renters to keep or welcome pets into their homes.
It follows years of campaigning by animal charities, including Battersea, who have long advocated for fairer rental policies to keep animals and their owners together.
Battersea chief executive Peter Laurie, said the move marks a significant milestone for pets and their owners across England.
"The passing of the Renters' Rights Act ensures that blanket pet bans will no longer be an obstacle to pet ownership, opening homes to millions of responsible tenants and their animals," he said.
"At Battersea, we've long campaigned for this change. We've seen firsthand the heartbreak caused by restrictive housing policies, of families forced to choose between keeping a home and keeping their beloved pets. Now, more people will be able to enjoy the companionship and wellbeing benefits pets bring, regardless of whether they rent or own their home.”
Despite the new act, Battersea warns there is more work to be done to ensure the rental market becomes truly inclusive for pets and their owners.
Peter continued: "While the Bill marks real progress in creating a fairer rental sector for tenants, landlords, and pets, there is still more to be done to strengthen the legislation's pet provisions. Battersea remains committed to working with the government to see these improvements through and ensure a future where every tenant can experience the joys of pet ownership."
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Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
