Model Conditions for Pet Vending

Model Conditions for Pet Vending Licensing

Contents 1. Introduction

2. Schedule A – General Conditions

3. Schedule B – Dogs

4. Schedule C – Cats

5. Schedule D – Rabbits & Guinea Pigs

6. Schedule E – Small Mammals

7. Schedule F – Ferrets

8. Schedule G – Birds

9. Schedule H – Reptiles and Amphibians

10. Schedule I – Fish

3 11. Useful Contacts

4 Introduction

Local Authorities issue licences to proprietors of pet shops and other pet vendors (e.g. internet traders) under the provisions of the Pet Animals Act 1951 (as amended). Before granting a licence the local authority must be satisfied that the animals are kept in accommodation that is suitable; that they are supplied with appropriate food and drink; and are adequately protected from disease and fire. The local authority may attach conditions to the licence, may inspect the licensed premises at all reasonable times and may refuse a licence if the standards at the premises are unsatisfactory or if the terms of the licence are not being complied with.

Under England’s Animal Welfare Act (2006)1 those responsible for animals, including pet vendors, have a responsibility towards the welfare of the animals in their care. Under this Act it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to an animal, whether by an act or omission. Vendors also have a legal ‘duty of care’ towards the animals in their care. Vendors must therefore take such steps as are reasonable in all the circumstances to meet the welfare needs of the animals, to the extent required by good practice. The Act defines an animal’s needs as including: • its need for a suitable environment • its need for a suitable diet • its need to be able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns • any need to be housed with, or apart from, other animals • its need to be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease.

1 www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/farmanimal/welfare/act 5 During the inspection, prior to the issue of a licence, it is important that the five needs as outlined above are considered. Defra has produced various Codes of Practice under the Animal Welfare Act, which outline in more detail certain species’ needs that can be referred to for guidance. Issues specific to pet shops are covered in this document. The Animal Welfare Act also increases the minimum age a person can buy an animal to 16 and prohibits giving animals as prizes to unaccompanied children under this age.

Legislation/ Orders that are relevant:

England

 Pet Animals Act 1951 as amended in 1983  Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 as amended in 1997  Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976  EU Regulation on the protection of animals during transport (EC) 1/2005  Welfare of Animals (Transport)(England) Order 2006  Animal Welfare Act 2006  Docking of Working Dogs’ Tails (England) Regulations 2007  Mutilations (Permitted Procedures)(England) Regulations 2007

The working group* agreed that the LGA Model Standards2 needed to be updated whilst anticipating secondary legislation under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. These conditions should therefore not be seen as a substitute for secondary legislation.

2 Local Government Association (1998) “The Pet Animals Act 1951: Model standards for pet shop licence conditions”, LGA Publications 6 The Model Conditions set out in this document are the working group’s recommendations for the basic minimum standards considered necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of animals in pet shops. Licensing authorities should apply and enforce the licence conditions sensibly and appropriately.

*The working group comprised the following organisations:

 British Veterinary Association  Cats Protection  Chartered Institute of Environmental Health  Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)  Dogs Trust  Federation of Companion Animal Societies  Feline Advisory Bureau  Local Government Regulation (LACORS)  Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association  Pet Care Trust  Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund  Reptile and Exotic Pet Trade Association  Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals  Special thanks also to Peter Scott - Zoo and Aquatic Veterinary Group / Companion Animal Welfare Council  Wood Green Animal Shelters

7 These Model Conditions should not be considered as a complete manual on animal husbandry. It is a living document which will be revised from time to time to take into account new knowledge of animal physiology and behaviour as well as advances and development in standards of animal welfare.

8 SCHEDULE A – GENERAL CONDITIONS

Condition Guidance

1.0 Licence Display:

1.1 The licence or a copy of the licence must be suitably For security reasons, the licence should not display displayed to the public in a prominent position the licence holder’s home address.

2.0 Accommodation:

2.1 Animals must at all times be kept in accommodation Animals should be able to move around freely, climb, designed to prevent escape and an environment suitable fly and jump where appropriate, and be comfortable to their species and condition with respect to situation, in their environment. Definitions of appropriate sizes size, temperature, ventilation and cleanliness and not and materials are in the appropriate appendices to exposed to draughts. All accommodation must be kept in this document. Regular maintenance and repair will good repair. prevent injury from damaged housing. Temperature monitoring devices should be provided and a record kept.

2.2 Ventilation must be provided to all interior areas without The spread of airborne infections can be a significant the creation of excessive, localized draughts. Ventilation risk. 9 is important as an aid to disease control and aims to decrease smell accumulation and prevent excessive humidity of the atmosphere. 2.2 If animals are displayed outdoors, they must have This can include shelter from wind, rain or snow protection appropriate to their species and/or the sun and predators if appropriate.

2.3 In order to control the spread of disease, and to prevent Appropriate housing will prevent direct transmission injury, housing must be constructed of non-porous of disease and injuries. materials or be appropriately treated. Junctions between This will maintain structural integrity and ensure dry, vertical and horizontal sections need to be fully easily cleansed surfaces. In general, wood is not an cleanable. appropriate material as it cannot be thoroughly cleaned.

2.4 Animals must be kept in housing to minimise stress from An area to hide away, if needed will help to reduce other animals or the public. Signage should be in place to stress levels for the animals. Care should be taken to deter public interference. minimise sensory contact between prey and predator species.

2.5 All livestock for sale must be readily accessible and easy This should help to ensure that the cage is kept clean to inspect by staff. and hygienic and animals can be easily observed for illness or injury.

2.6 Accommodation must be cleaned as often as necessary to To maintain a clean environment a cleaning Standard maintain good hygiene standards Operating Procedure (SOP) should be provided and

10 should detail the routine daily cleaning regime and the procedure for cleaning between periods of occupation. Soiled bedding should be removed sufficiently frequently to ensure animals do not have to lie in it.

2.7 Where accommodation is on a tiered system, water food This will prevent contamination of the lower cages. or other droppings must not be allowed to enter the lower This does not apply to centralised fish systems or housing aviaries where perching and ground birds are housed together.

All accessories provided for environmental enrichment in To stimulate the performance of natural behaviours. the accommodation must be appropriate for the species.

3.0 Exercise Facilities

3.1 Suitable and sufficient facilities must be available where Animals must be able to exhibit normal behaviour appropriate. patterns and this may require the provision of suitable space for exercise.

4.0 Register of Animals

4.1 A livestock purchase register must be maintained for all This can be by cross reference to an invoice file. The livestock detailing their source and identification where purpose of the register is to ascertain the source of

11 appropriate. the livestock.

Some species are listed on CITES [Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species] and species listed on Annex A of EU Wildlife Trade Regulations [Council Regulation (EC) No. 338/97] must have a valid Article 10 Certificate and may require microchipping or closed ring. Species listed on Annex B do not require Certificates.

Wild-caught specimens listed on Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive [Council Directive 92/43 EEC] collected within the EU require the appropriate Certification. Captive-bred specimens are exempted from such requirements.

4.2 A sales register must be maintained for; The purpose of the register is for emergency contact 4.2.1 Dogs of purchasers. The name, address and telephone 4.2.2 Cats number of the purchaser should be obtained. This is 4.2.3 Psittacines not required for other species. 4.2.4 Species contained in the Schedule to the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 (as modified)

4.3 Puppies must be identifiable whilst at the shop. The Microchip is the preferred method of identification. 12 record must show: The record provides a contemporaneous record to be 4.3.1 The identification of the animal given to the purchaser. 4.3.2 The date of birth, breed, sex and any distinguishing features 4.3.3 Details of any veterinary care provided while under care of the shop 4.3.4 Details of any feedback provided to the breeder on health issues such as disease or inherited defects 4.3.5 Details of any health screening tests performed on the parents

4.4 Animals under veterinary treatment must be identifiable. 5.0 Stocking Numbers and Densities

5.1 No animals other than those specified in the licence, may The licence conditions should clearly state the be stocked without prior written approval from the numbers for each species or species group, except licensing authority. fish. Please refer to Schedules for individual species for more details.

6.0 Health Disease and Acclimatisation

6.1 Stock should have a period of acclimatisation where Transport and the introduction to a novel environment appropriate. are very stressful and animals should be allowed to acclimatise before being further stressed by being 13 offered for sale. Where animals are obtained for sale to a specific client it may be acceptable for the animal to be sold immediately. 6.1 All stock for sale must be in good health and free from Shops and staff are responsible for providing the obvious parasitic infestation. animals’ needs including good health care. Illness and parasitic infection should be addressed before the animal is sold. Veterinary advice should be sought in any case of doubt.

6.2 Any sick or injured animal must receive appropriate care “Care and treatment” may include euthanasia but and treatment without delay These must only be treated under no circumstances may an animal be by appropriately competent staff. euthanased other than in a humane and effective manner. In case of doubt, veterinary advice must be sought. Refer to section 16.2 for assessment of competence.

6.3 Provision must be made for the isolation of sick/injured For ornamental fish, in-line UV treatment or other animals. sterilising devices effectively provide a means of isolating individual tanks in multiple tank systems. They must be of a proper size and maintained in accordance with manufacturers’ recommendations.

6.4 All animals must receive appropriate vaccination where A Record of Vaccination should be provided to the required for the species, if advised by the veterinary purchaser. Any kitten 9 weeks or over, puppy 8

14 surgeon. Veterinary advice must be sought whenever weeks or over, rabbit 8 weeks or over and ferret 12 necessary weeks or over should have started their vaccination course as advised by the vet. 6.5 Any animals with an abnormality which would materially Information on any known conditions should be affect its quality of life, must not be offered for sale. When provided to the new owner. in doubt, veterinary advice should be sought.

6.6 All reasonable precautions must be taken to prevent the Precautions should include regular cleaning (see 2.6) outbreak and spread of disease. No animal which is and good personal hygiene of staff in addition to suffering from, or could reasonably be suspected of effective quarantine of incoming groups of animals having come into contact with any other animal suffering except for fish. Staff handling animals should wash from any infectious or contagious disease or which is or disinfect, and rinse if appropriate, their hands infested with parasites, shall be brought into or kept on between groups. the premises unless effectively isolated. The shop should be registered with a veterinary practice and there should be veterinary input to SOPs where appropriate. 6.7 All necessary precautions must be taken to prevent “Rodent” and “Insect” excludes livestock for sale or harbourage, or the introduction to the premises, of feeding rodents, insects and other pests.

7.0 Food and Drink

7.1 Animals must be supplied with adequate amounts of food Water should be available at all times except for those and drink, appropriate to their needs at suitable intervals species when it may be harmful. An SOP should be

15 produced for basic nutritional needs for each species or species group, and age group if appropriate.

7.2 All food must be suitable for the species concerned Considerable knowledge may be required to define what is suitable for some species. The organisation should demonstrate that staff either have sufficient knowledge or access to appropriate sources of information.

7.3 Food and Drink receptacles must be constructed and Faecal and urine contamination is a risk to health. positioned to minimise faecal and urine contamination Maintaining a clean environment may require regular and spillage. Receptacles must be cleaned out at regular cleaning of receptacles. Receptacles should be intervals. thoroughly cleaned before being moved between litters/groups.

8.0 Food Storage

8.1 All food, excluding live foods intended for feeding to To prevent spoilage of the food or attraction of livestock on the premises, must be stored in impervious rodents or pests to the premises. closed containers.

8.2 The containers and equipment used for feeding must be There must be suitable facilities for cleaning of kept in a clean and sound condition. receptacles and equipment which should be separate from staff welfare facilities. 9.0 Observation

16 9.1 All livestock must be attended to at regular intervals, Regular checks and observation records aid in early except where defined in the schedule, at least once daily, detection of illness or injury and should be considered appropriate to the species. very important for all animals. It is recommended that a system of recording observation should be maintained. 10.0 Disposal of Waste

10.1 All excreta and soiled bedding for disposal must be kept This is important for biosecurity and odour reduction. in a hygienic manner and stored in impervious containers with close fitting lids – away from direct sunlight.

10.2 Excreta and soiled bedding must be removed from the Premises should maintain a contract for removal with premises on a regular basis, at least weekly disposed of to an appropriate company and adhere to local authority the satisfaction of the appropriate local authority, and in regulations. accordance with current regulations and good waste There should be appropriate arrangements in place management practice. for removal of carcasses.

10.3 All containers must be kept in a clean condition. For biosecurity and hygiene purposes

11.0 Transportation to the Premises

11.1 When receiving stock, the licensee must make every effort A record will enable tracing of the vehicle, if any to ensure that it is transported in a suitable manner. queries arise regarding transportation of animals

17 11.2 Any livestock received or consigned shall be transported according to the regulations laid down in current legislation.

12.0 Transportation Containers at Point of Sale

12.1 Livestock must be transported or handed to purchasers in suitable containers.

13.0 Sale of livestock

13.1 No mammal shall be sold un-weaned or, if weaned, at an Young mammals require nutritional and behavioural age at which it should not have been weaned. support from their mothers.

13.2 In the case of non-mammals, they must be capable of feeding themselves.

18 14.0 Dangerous Wild Animals as defined by the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976

14.1 When dangerous wild animals are kept, the cages must be Safety of staff and the general public should be of of a secure and locked construction appropriate to the utmost importance and safety barriers may aid in this, species. as well as prevention of escape.

14.2 The local authority should be notified in the event that the The primary requirements of the Act are to protect the pet shop wishes to offer for sale, any animal on the public but there are also welfare implications. Schedule to the Dangerous Wild Animals Act. Although it is acknowledged that there is an exemption contained within the Act in relation to pet shops, it is recommended that consideration should be given to complying with any special requirement(s) specified in the Act for the safe accommodation or care of the animal.

Licensees selling animals on the Schedule to the Dangerous Wild Animals Act should inspect the purchaser’s licence to keep such an animal, and inform the issuing authority of the details of the purchase. Licensees should take note of the latest guidance from Defra.

19 15.0 Pet care advice

15.1 Pet care leaflets or other similar written instructions must It is the duty of the licensee to ensure that the be made available to customers free of charge at the time purchaser is informed of the correct care of the animal of purchase, in addition to any offer to purchase pet care covering feeding, housing, handling, husbandry, books or leaflets. accessories and veterinary care. Information may also be made available electronically. 15.2 Appropriate reference materials for each species must Further advice can be obtained from the organisations always be available for use by staff listed in the Useful Contacts section at the back of this document

16.0 Staff training and livestock knowledge

16.1 No animal should be stocked or sold unless the staff (or at Staff members must be able to provide suitable advice least one member of staff) is familiar with the care and to purchasers and answer questions as required by welfare of the animals stocked and has a recognised them to facilitate ensuring that the animal’s welfare is qualification or suitable experience. protected in its new home.

16.2 In respect of new applications (not renewals), at least one The provision of adequately trained staff is essential member of staff working at the premises must hold to ensure the animals’ welfare is protected. Where appropriate training or qualifications, or be able to there is no qualified member of staff, there may be a demonstrate suitable experience; or must be in the course requirement for an increased frequency of inspection. of training, and obtain the qualification within two years of the licence being granted.

20 16.3 The licensee must be able to demonstrate that appropriate Further advice and guidance and training can be training is carried out. obtained from the organisations listed in the Useful Contacts section. 17.0 Fire and other emergency precautions

17.1 Suitable emergency precautions and written procedures Staff should be aware of these procedures and a copy must exist and be made known to all staff, including should be displayed for staff to refer to as needed. arrangements for evacuation of livestock. Evacuation should be regularly practised and practices recorded. 17.2 Entrances and exits must be clear of obstructions at all To facilitate risk free evacuation if needed. When times. designing accommodation, consideration should be given to using systems which would allow timely removal of the animals in the case of emergency. This provision would not usually apply to aquariums and ponds.

17.3 Suitable fire fighting equipment must be provided, This will ensure that, if needed, the equipment will maintained, regularly serviced and sited as advised by the function correctly. Staff should be properly trained on local fire protection/prevention officer and approved by the use of equipment provided. the local authority.

17.4 The licensee, or a designated key holder, must at all times A reasonable distance would, in normal conditions, be be within reasonable distance of the premises and interpreted as no more that 20 minutes travelling

21 available to visit the premises in case of emergency. time.

17.5 A list of key holders must be logged with the local police For contact in cases of emergency and local authority

17.6 In the interests of animal welfare, the following notice For information of the public in cases of emergency, must be displayed at the front of the premises: “In case of when a staff member is not on site. an emergency dial 999”. The number of the local police station should also be displayed.

17.7 When pet shops are sited within other premises, the This is vital for access to the animals at all times to licensee or key holders must have access at all times to ensure correct care is provided the premises containing the livestock.

17.8 All electrical installations and appliances must be For Health and safety of staff and animals maintained in a safe condition.

17.9 There must be an effective contingency plan for essential Some species are very sensitive to temperature heating, ventilation and aeration/filtration systems, as fluctuation. appropriate.

22 **Please see ‘Schedule A – General Conditions’ for food, water and isolation conditions

SCHEDULE B – DOGS

Condition Guidance

1.0 Puppies must be weaned before leaving the mother. To ensure puppies can eat the food provided. Puppies must be 8 weeks old or over. EU Regulations / Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 2006 restricts the transport of puppies without their mother before this age.

2.0 The minimum kennel size must be: The kennel area should be large enough to allow separate sleeping and activity areas. The kennel a. For a litter of small breed puppies - max 6 pups – should allow each puppy to be able to walk, turn 1.5 m2 for sleeping, plus 2 m2 for exercise around and wag its tail without touching the sides of b. For a litter of medium breed puppies - max 4 pups the kennel. The puppies should have sufficient room – 2 m2 for sleeping, plus 2 m2 for exercise to play, stand on their hind limbs and to lie down without touching another individual. c. For a litter of large breed puppies - max 4 pups – 4 m2 for sleeping, plus 4 m2 for exercise The kennel size required will increase in relation to the size and number of puppies housed at any one These are minimum requirements, for larger litters the time. The length and the width should be sufficient size of the pens should be adjusted accordingly. Ideally to allow all the puppies to lie outstretched without 23 the puppies should have free access to the exercise area their noses or tails touching the walls or other at all times. Any covered pens should have a minimum individuals. height of 1.8m or removable covers to allow adequate access by staff for cleaning. These are minimum In certain circumstance it is permissible to have standards and meeting the correct size of pens alone are separate exercise areas to sleeping areas but in such not a defence if the welfare of the animals are in cases puppies must be given access to the exercise question. area at least four times a day. Any separate exercise area should be fully cleaned between its use by different batches of puppies.

3.0 Suitable and sufficient exercise facilities must be available where appropriate. 4.0 Ambient temperature of the kennel must be a minimum Puppies are relatively sensitive to low temperatures. of 180C. Temperatures should not exceed 26ºC. 5.0 General bedding must include an adequate amount of The use of enough absorbent material allows urine absorbent material. and faeces to be contained and reduce contamination of the puppies.

6.0 Any soiled material must be removed at least four times a Puppies do not discriminate in where they toilet and day or as required to ensure the puppy does not have to this maintains a clean environment. A cleaning lie in a soiled area. schedule or SOP should be provided.

7.0 A specific lying place must be provided lined with soft The use of soft material will prevent skin lesions being material. caused by soiling or pressure sores.

24 8.0 Puppies must be fed at least four times daily. 9.0 Puppies must have frequent, quality contact time with “Suitable intervals” for puppies to be visited are staff. frequent, as they require to be socialised. It is recommended that this should be a minimum of 4 times per day witih 20 minutes of specific interaction per litter. There should be an SOP.

10.0 Litters of puppies must not be mixed until they have been Puppies are particularly susceptible to disease as they on the premises for seven days or have shown no sign of have immature immune systems. infectious disease for seven days. 11.0 Ideally single puppies must not be left alone in a kennel, Isolating healthy puppies does not allow them to but where they are, special attention should be paid to exhibit natural behaviour patterns. specific human interaction. When litters are mixed they should be of similar size, age and temperament and there should be good supervision of mixing. 12.0 There must be environmental enrichment in all kennels To allow puppies to exhibit normal behaviour such as indestructible toys. These should be easily patterns. cleaned and replaced between litters. 13.0 The new owner must be advised to register the puppy with a vet.

25 **Please see ‘Schedule A – General Conditions’ for food, water and isolation conditions

SCHEDULE C – CATS

Condition Guidance

1.0 Kittens must be weaned before leaving the mother. To ensure kittens can eat the food provided. Kittens must be 8 weeks old or over. EU Regulations / Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 2006 restricts the transport of kittens without their mother before this age.

2.0 The minimum pen size for a litter of kittens, up to 12 Kittens require adequate space to play together and to weeks of age, must be 1 m3. Any shelving or platforms have space for a litter tray and bed. Varying heights must be in addition to the minimum floor area. to enable climbing should each also be provided. There should be separate spaces for feeding, drinking, sleeping and a litter tray.

3.0 Ambient temperature must be a minimum of 180C. Kittens are relatively sensitive to low temperatures owing to their small body weight. Temperatures should not exceed 26 0C.

4.0 Disposable or washable bedding must be provided and Kittens need a warm sleeping, soft area, away from 26 kept clean. the litter tray and food.

5.0 A litter tray and appropriate litter must be available at all Cats dislike dirty litter trays and it is important to times and cleaned and disinfected at least once daily with keep the cage clean to prevent infections. Litter trays an appropriate disinfectant which is safe for use with should be checked at least four times a day and cats. cleaned as appropriate. The disinfectant should be anti-viral and used in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions, as some disinfectants are toxic to cats.

6.0 Kittens must be fed at least four times daily. 7.0 Litters must not be mixed and if several litters are kept in Diseases spread very easily between litters, both by one area then the pen must have solid sides. direct contact or by sneezing. Kittens are particularly susceptible to disease as they have immature immune systems. 8.0 Kittens must have frequent, quality contact time with staff. It is recommended that this should be a minimum of 4 times per day with 20 minutes of specific interaction per litter. Kittens should be protected from over- handling by staff or the public as they require time to rest.

9.0 There must be environmental enrichment in all cages To allow kittens to exhibit normal behaviours, such as indestructible toys, climbing frames and particularly climbing. platforms. Toys should be easily cleaned and replaced between litters.

27 10.0 The new owner must be advised to register the kitten with a vet.

28 SCHEDULE D – RABBITS & GUINEA PIGS

Condition Guidance

1.0 Rabbits and guinea pigs must not be housed together. Guinea pigs and rabbits are unable to effectively communicate and may find the presence of the other distressing. 2.0 Rabbits and guinea pigs must be fully weaned on To ensure rabbits can eat the food provided, and are admission. Rabbits must be at least 8 weeks old and healthy enough to be rehomed. guinea pigs at least 6 weeks old. Rabbits must be retained for 3 days prior to sale. Young rabbits are easily stressed by being in a changed environment and must be allowed to acclimatise.

3.0 Rabbits and guinea pigs must be correctly sexed and Rabbits are easier to sex at 8 weeks than any earlier, housed in same sex groups. which will help prevent mis-sexing and unwanted litters. Guinea pigs must be sexed and separated immediately; unwanted litters can occur from as little as 6 weeks.

4.0 The minimum enclosure size must ensure that every Rabbits should be kept, in store, in groups. Rabbits 29 rabbit can make 3 consecutive hops and stretch fully on need to be able move freely to be able to perform their back legs. A hiding place must be provided. vital behaviours such as caecotrophy, and rearing. Rabbits are prey animals and should have the opportunity to hide if scared or stressed. Guinea pigs must be able to make 4 large steps the The smaller the space the more likely guinea pigs equivalent to body length. (122cm by 60cm per two pigs are to fight. There is also a greater chance of fungal is recommended) infection due to increased humidity. 5.0 Ambient temperature must be a minimum of 120C and a Rabbits can tolerate cold better than heat, maximum of 180C. temperatures above 21 oc can result in heat stroke and death. Air conditioning units, or fans as a minimum, should be available to maintain a safe temperature for the rabbits. Lighting must not affect guinea pig welfare Guinea pigs must be able to move away from direct lighting. Cool hides should be provided to prevent over heating. 6.0 Rabbits and guinea pigs must be housed in a suitable Rabbits need a warm, softly-bedded sleeping area substrate and in sufficient amounts. away from the litter and food/water. Rabbits often choose to toilet in the sleeping area of a hutch and a litter tray could be placed here. Guniea pigs need soft chopped straw plus abundant good quality hay. Avoid wood shavings as they can irritate allergies, affect breathing and carry fungal spores.

30 7.0 Visibly soiled bedding and litter must be removed daily The disinfectant should be effective against viral, and between occupants, the whole pen should be bacterial and parasitic infections and safe for use on thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. rabbits. Check with a vet if unsure. Diseases such as E.Cuniculi can be spread via urine, so thorough cleaning is required between new occupants. Dirty damp bedding can result in fungal problems for guinea pigs. Disinfect as for rabbits.

8.0 Rabbits must have a constant supply of fresh hay and Rabbits’ teeth grow continually and therefore water, and be offered an appropriate amount of dry food constant access to good quality hay is essential for for the breed and age. dental health, gastrointestinal health (without a constant supply of fibrous food, rabbit GI tracts slow down) and behavioural reasons (to relieve boredom).

It is vital that hay is available throughout the day and sufficient provided for them at closing time to last them until the next day.

Dry food should be provided for youngsters to assist growth, see manufacturers’ instructions, but should not be fed ad-lib.

9.0 Guinea pigs and Degus must have free ad lib access to To provide sufficient fibre, hay should be present and hay. best practice should be to feed hay first and then to 31 feed concentrate slightly later.

10.0 Guinea pigs must have sufficient vitamin C in their diet Guinea pigs are unable to synthesise Vitamin C. The provision of Vitamin C can be supplied via special formula guinea pig diet or supplements (fresh fruit and vegetables or Vitamin C in water). 11.0 Rabbits must be housed with litter mates. Rabbits and guinea pigs are social animals and should be kept in pairs (easiest) or groups. Do not mix litters of guinea pigs as parasites and fungal infections are common.

12.0 Rabbits, guinea pigs and degus must be checked at Routine checks will insure that any health problems start, middle and end of a business day and at beginning or concerns are picked up quickly. and end of non-business day. Rabbits in particular can die within hours of disease being manifest. 13.0 There must be environmental enrichment in all Rabbits need to exhibit normal behaviours, enclosures. particularly chewing, running, digging and jumping. For example indestructible toys; cardboard boxes; chewing substrates. Toys should be easily cleaned and should be replaced between litters. Guinea pigs need to express natural behaviour such as running and chewing. Toys such as hides, tunnels, paper bags filled with hay and fruit twigs are ideal for expressing natural foraging behaviour.

32 All guinea pigs must have the option to hide from view.

14.0 Measures must be in place to maintain a consistent diet. Rabbits’ digestive systems are particularly sensitive to sudden changes of diet. Low fibre diets can also induce long-term changes and acute disease.

SCHEDULE E – OTHER SMALL MAMMALS

Condition Guidance

1.0 All small mammals must be sexed and housed in single To help avoid unwanted litters, all animals should be sex groups (unless for sale as a breeding pair), unless a sexed on arrival to the premises and housed in single solitary species sex groups.

2.0 Animals must at all times be kept in suitably sized Animals should be able to freely move around the accommodation. accommodation and be able to perform natural behaviours. See attached table for species-relevant sizing.

3.0 Animals must be provided with a suitable substrate in Providing sufficient and appropriate substrate keeps sufficient amounts. the accommodation clean and dry and allows digging 33 where appropriate. There are a number of substrates available and the type used will depend on the animal kept.

4.0 Animals must be provided with a suitable bedding Bedding provides a place to sleep and rest, the type material in sufficient amounts. used will depend on the animal kept. It should be provided in sufficient quantities to enable the animal to feel secure and warm.

5.0 Animals must be provided with places to hide. Animals must be given the opportunity to hide as a Accessories and enrichment should be provided, suitable natural instinct and be given suitable accessories to to the species. allow for stimulation and to reduce stress. Rodents should be given the opportunity to gnaw by providing e.g. wooden toys. Chinchillas and Degus should be given the opportunity to use a sand bath by offering one on a regular basis, e.g. 10 minutes daily.

6.0 Suitable food and drink receptacles must be provided and Water for small animals is usually provided in clean positioned to avoid faecal contamination. gravity fill drinking bottles,(which should be of a suitable size for the species) or automatic or semi – automatic drinking systems.

34 MINIMUM ACCOMMODATION REQUIREMENTS - Small Rodents

Floor Area sq. cms No. of Minimum Minimum Animals 1-4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Cage Cage Height Depth (cms) (cms)

Mice, Hamsters, 675 785 900 1010 1125 1235 1350 30 25 Gerbils

Rats 1350 1570 1800 2020 2250 2470 2700 30 28

Degus 2250 2625 3000 3375 3750 4125 4500 30 30

Chinchillas, 2500 3750 5000 6250 7500 8750 10000 100 45 Chipmunks,

SCHEDULE F – FERRETS

Condition Guidance

1.0 Ferrets must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned Ferret kits can find separation from their mother very on admission. stressful and the stress response in a ferret often results in diarrhoea which can prove fatal.

2.0 Ferrets must be housed with litter mates for Ferrets are naturally social animals that depend on companionship. the companionship of their own kind. Lone ferrets often suffer depression including poor appetite and lack of enthusiasm to move or play.

3.0 Ferrets must be correctly sexed and housed in groups or Ferret kits can be easily be sexed at 8 weeks of age. pairs of either sex. Adult, un-neutered hobs (males) may exhibit Adult hobs (males) require individual accommodation. dominant behaviour and fight, so requiring individual Every adult ferret must be assessed to determine their accommodation. housing requirements which depend on age, House the Jill kits at a reasonable distance to prevent temperament, sex and time of year. aggression between the hobs as they mature at around 20 weeks.

4.0 Litters of ferrets must not be mixed. Ferrets can be carriers of disease; not mixing will 36 reduce the risk of disease spreading. Mixing can be stressful for ferrets.

5.0 Ferrets must be checked at the start, middle and end of a Some diseases can rapidly develop and prove fatal. business day, during a non business day the ferrets must Ferrets are very energetic; regular checking will be checked at the beginning and end of the day. ensure they are safe and secure.

6.0 The minimum enclosure size must ensure that each ferret Ferrets require space to exhibit their normal active can perform 5 large bounds lengthwise the equivalent of behaviour – running backwards, forwards and 150 cm, 4 large bounds depthwise and the ability to sideways and to climb, explore and play. stretch and climb 120cm. Enclosures must be placed on a hard surface and anchored to the ground. Ferrets require space for their toilet area removed from Ferrets are naturally clean and will usually select one their sleeping or eating areas. corner as their toilet.

7.0 Sleeping quarters must be draft free and dark. They must Ferrets seek dark areas for sleeping and sleep for long ideally be raised with access via a slip-proof ramp or hours, up to twenty a day in the winter. Their natural climbing tube. instinct is to hide whilst sleeping.

8.0 Ferrets must have suitable bedding such as commercial Straw, wood shavings and shredded paper are fabric items which can be removed and laundered. considered unsuitable. Dust causes irritation and can give rise to serious health problems. The bedding area should be checked daily as ferrets often store

37 food amongst the bedding material. 9.0 Pens must be situated out of direct sunlight or other heat Ferrets tolerate cold better than heat. Heat source. Ambient temperature must be a minimum of prostration is likely at 32ºC. 15ºC and maximum 20ºC. 10.0 Ferret biscuit and fresh, clean water must be available at The ferret(s) should be fed a recognised and branded all times. Refresh water daily. ferret kibble / biscuit that provides their dietary Clean water must be supplied in both a heavy based bowl requirements. and also a secondary water bottle attached to the side of Ferrets are renowned for tipping bowls. the enclosure.

11.0 Adult jills (females) in season must be taken out of Jills (females) left in season are prone to infection of season. This is usually by a hormone injection the vulva and oestroegen induced anaemia which is a administered by a veterinary surgeon. factor in shortening their normal lifespan. (The breeding season is triggered by light and the main breeding season is between March and September).

38 SCHEDULE H – REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS

Condition Guidance

1.0 Stocking and density must be appropriate to the species. Most reptiles and amphibians are not social and may, therefore, be kept individually. Communal enclosures should not be stocked as to appear overcrowded, common sense should be observed.

Snakes: may be housed individually or in small groups, if appropriate e.g. compatible species corn snakes (Pantherophis). Snakes known to be cannibalistic, e.g. king snakes (Lampropeltis sp), should be housed individuality.

Lizards: only species of similar size and from similar habitats should be kept communally. Lizards known to be cannibalistic, e.g. Gambelia sp, should be housed individually. Generally adult male lizards in breeding condition should not be housed together and groups of lizards housed communally should be regularly observed for signs of aggression. 39 Tortoises & Terrapins: only terrapins of similar size and habit should be kept communally. Tortoises of different species should not be kept in the same enclosure and adult males in breeding condition should not be housed together, and may require separate housing.

Frogs and Toads: only species of similar size, and from similar habitats, should be kept communally. Mixing of taxa (e.g. frog & toad) is not generally recommended. Cannibalistic species, such as horned frogs (Ceratophrys sp.) and African bull frogs (Pyxicephalus sp.) should be housed individually.

Newts & Salamanders: only species of similar size and from similar habitats should be kept communally.

Generally mixed taxa [e.g. lizards and tortoises] are not recommended, although paludaria which combine fish with small reptiles and/or amphibians of appropriate species are acceptable. 2.0 The enclosure size must be appropriate to the species. Snakes: the length of the enclosure should be no less than two-thirds the overall length of the snake. 40 Lizards: the length of the enclosure should be three times the snout-to-vent length [nose to hind legs] of the lizard, or larger.

Tortoises & Terrapins: the length of the enclosure should be four times the length of the animal, or larger. For aquatic species [terrapins] the enclosure should allow the animal to swim adequately, i.e. have water depth at least 6 times that of the animal, although some terrapins (e.g. Cuora sp., Terrapene sp. and Glyptemys sp.) do not require such deep water. Terrapins must also have an adequate basking area.

Frogs and Toads: the length of the enclosure should be at least three times the length of the animal, or larger. For sedentary species, such as horned frogs (Ceratophrys sp.) and African bull frogs (Pyxicephalus sp.) the enclosure can be smaller. Fully aquatic species should be able to swim adequately, i.e. water depth should be at least 4 times the depth of the animal.

Newts & Salamanders: the length of the enclosure 41 should be at least three times the snout-to-vent [nose to hind legs] of the amphibian, or larger. Aquatic species should be able to swim adequately, i.e. water depth should be at least 4 times the depth of the animal.

Height and Width: of the enclosure should be appropriate to the species, with arboreal species requiring more height than terrestrial species.

Common sense must be applied when considering this aspect. 3.0 Temperature, humidity and ventilation must be Ambient and basking temperatures should be appropriate to the species. appropriate to the species concerned, with the following guidance for commonly kept species:

Snakes: ambient day time 24-30ºC, basking 33-38 ºC. Night time ambient 21-27ºC, no basking. Humidity <60% desert species, >60% others.

Lizards: desert species ambient day time 27-30ºC, basking 35-43ºC. Night time ambient 21-27ºC, no basking. Humidity <60%

Lizards: rainforest species ambient day 23-27ºC,

42 basking 35ºC. Night time ambient 21-24ºC, no basking. Humidity >60%

Chameleons [and cloud forest species]: ambient day 18-24ºC, basking 28-35ºC. Night time ambient 16- 19ºC, no basking. Humidity >60%

Tortoises: ambient day time 27-30ºC, basking 35- 43 ºC. Night time ambient 24-27ºC, no basking. Mediterranean species should have access to a humid hide and tropical species will require higher humidity.

Terrapins: water temperature should be appropriate to the species, i.e. temperate species minimum water temperature of 16-19ºC, tropical species 27-29ºC with basking area 29-38ºC.

Frogs & Toads: ambient day 18-27ºC, night ambient 16-21ºC, no basking (with some exceptions). Humidity >80%

Salamanders & Newts: ambient day 18-27ºC, night ambient 16-21ºC, no basking (with some exceptions). Humidity >80% 43 These are guidelines only and individual species should be researched as requirements for some species will fall outside of these recommendations. Vendors and staff must have access to relevant reference material (books, internet etc.).

Basking spots may be provided by convection or radiant heat sources (e.g. light bulb, or heat mat), as appropriate to the species.

Ventilation should be appropriate to the species and should allow sufficient change of air without jeopardising the temperature or humidity in the enclosure.

4.0 Lighting must be appropriate to the species. An appropriate photo period should be observed.

Species requiring UVB lighting, e.g. diurnal lizards & tortoises, should have appropriate UVB emitting lamps. These should be replaced according to manufacturer’s recommendations.

Mercury Vapour or Metal Halide UVB emitting lamps may also be used to provide a daytime heat source. 44 UV light sources must not be screened by non UV transmitting glass or plastic.

Animals should have areas of shade so that they can escape from the light if desired.

5.0 Substrate appropriate to the species must be present. Substrate should be appropriate to the species concerned and may include, but not be limited to: newspaper, paper towel, bark chip, wood chip, terrarium humus, moss, gravel, calcium carbonate, terrarium sand etc.

6.0 Enrichment must be provided appropriate to the Décor should be appropriate to the species and species. should not be harmful, e.g. sharp rocks, toxic or injurious plants. Décor should be secure and not able to fall and cause injury.

Enclosure should be furnished in such a fashion as to allow inhabitants to exhibit natural behaviour, e.g. climb or hide where appropriate.

7.0 Food and water must be provided in the appropriate Feeding habits vary between species and between manner for the species. individuals. Staff should have knowledge of the requirements for all the species held. Food should be

45 presented in a form or pattern that is acceptable to the species concerned.

Food supplements [vitamin and minerals] should be provided as appropriate to the species concerned.

Live food intended for use should be housed in suitable escape proof containers, and fed appropriately.

Fresh foods [salads] should be kept refrigerated where appropriate.

Frozen foods intended for use must be stored in an appropriate deep freeze and defrosted thoroughly before use.

Feeding records for hatchling snakes should be kept and made available to purchasers.

Fresh water should be available at all times, with the exception of certain desert species, such as Uromastyx sp., which should be offered water periodically.

Certain species, such as chameleons, do not drink from standing water and should be offered water

46 appropriately, e.g. by a dripper system or sprayer.

8.0 Hygiene, enclosures must be cleaned appropriately. Spoiled food stuffs should be removed at appropriate time periods, at least daily. Substrates should be replaced as appropriate, and spot cleaned daily. Décor should be sanitised as appropriate.

Enclosures should be disinfected with appropriate disinfectant as necessary and always between different batches of animals. Disinfectant should be appropriate for the contaminants likely to be encountered.

Disinfectant hand gels should be available for staff to use between animals, to prevent the external environment being contaminated.

Water bowls should be cleaned as appropriate and disinfected at least weekly. Slough [shed skins] should be removed daily.

9.0 Handling must be kept to a minimum at all times. Handling should be kept to a minimum at all times, unless the animal is being socialised. Staff should receive training on how to handle animals and animals which may be aggressive should only be

47 handled by competent staff.

Staff should sanitise hands after handling specimens, and any equipment used should also be sanitised. The use of waterless hand cleaners is acceptable

Customers wishing to handle animals prior to purchase should be supervised and offered facilities to wash their hands afterwards. The use of disinfectant hand gel is acceptable.

48 SCHEDULE I – FISH

Condition Guidance

1.0 Water quality is a key determinant of fish welfare. To It is virtually impossible to determine the quantity of assess it, levels of ammonia and nitrite must be checked aquatic organisms to be kept in a system purely on a first. Only if such measurements exceed the standards, or weight or number of aquatic organisms per unit, there is an unexplained problem, is there any need to volume, or water surface area. proceed further. Minimum water standards must be: The variation in holding system used, the quality of Cold Water Species husbandry and the types of aquatic organisms Free Ammonia max 0.02mg/l stocked vary so greatly that it would render any such Nitrite max 0.2mg/l system too complicated to be practical or too simple Dissolved Oxygen min 6mg/l to be useful. Nitrate max 50mg/l above ambient tap water Tropical Freshwater Species The maintenance of water quality standards can be Free Ammonia max 0.02mg/l used to determine working stocking densities. Nitrite max 0.2mg/l Dissolved Oxygen min 6mg/l The water quality standards should not be met at the Nitrate max 50mg/l above ambient tap water expense of a correct feeding regime. Tropical Marine Species Free Ammonia max 0.01mg/l Exceptions to these standards might occur e.g. whe 49 Nitrite max 0.125mg/l n aquatic organisms are diseased, after transport or Nitrate max 100mg/l other stress. However in these cases appropriate rem pH min 8.1 edial actions e.g. treatment, acclimatisation or isolati Dissolved Oxygen min 4.0 mg/l on should be undertaken.

Sea water holds less oxygen than fresh water. The recommended level is 5.5 mg/l so extra care is needed to ensure that levels do not routinely fall below this.

2.0 Water quality must be checked regularly and records One test is representative of all the water in the kept of all tests. system of centralised systems.

Centralised systems must be tested weekly. Standalone systems must each be tested.

10% of individually filtered tanks or vat must be tested Poor water quality is often the underlying cause of weekly problems presenting

On aquaria or vats in which visual inspection indicates unusual behaviour or deaths, water quality inspections should be undertaken. 3.0 Holding systems must be cleaned and checked regularly. Aquaria shall be checked daily and cleaned as often as is necessary to maintain good hygiene standards, consistent with the rate of stock turnover and consequent stocking densities. 50 4.0 No aquatic organisms should be exposed to excessive No fish or other organism should be subject to rapid light or heat, or lack of adequate warmth. fluctuation in light (lights should be on dimmers if automated), temperature and chemical composition of their water, other than for the controlled treatment of disease or as part of a controlled breeding programme.

There are in excess of 4000 fish species in trade and thus the acceptable conditions may vary substantially and often counter intuitively. In case of doubt expert advice should always be sought.

51 SCHEDULE G – BIRDS

Condition Guidance

1.0 There must be adequate perching space for all birds **Guideline stocking densities are to be added such at once. Stocking densities will depend on the type of bird as well as cage dimensions and number of perches. Outdoor aviaries must include sufficient sheltered and non-sheltered space. Access to rain can be beneficial for plumage

Cage size must be adequate to allow birds to open their wings fully in all directions. Some species will need adequate space to fly.

2.0 Perches must be positioned so that birds do not defecate on each other and must be of appropriate size and shape for each species 3.0 Temperature must not exceed 32°C Birds are more sensitive to high temperatures. 4.0 There must be adequate drinkers/feeders Birds should not have to compete for commensurate with the number of birds and these drinkers/feeders and risk exclusion. must be cleaned regularly.

52 Bowls etc. must be positioned so that birds do not Enrichment and feeding devices need to be defecate in food/water provided for larger psittacids.

For parrots, it is preferable to use swinging systems such that the keeper does not need to enter the cage in order to change food/water. Bowls should not be able to be removed from holders by the parrot.

5.0 Cages must be constructed from materials suitable Some species require more robust materials. to the type and size of birds. Materials must be safe Materials such as loose zinc coating can be toxic to birds and in good repair. to birds. 6.0 Windproof nestboxes must be provided in all outside housing and inside where appropriate. 7.0 Flooring must be drop-through or easily If ground living birds are kept with perching washed/hosed. birds then attention should be paid to flooring such that bumblefoot issues are addressed - i.e. no concrete/rough stone. Where natural turf flooring is used, parasite status of the birds should be checked on a regular basis every few weeks 8.0 Post mortem examination of dead birds must be If there are upper respiratory signs or green carried out. dropping in psittacids then psittacosis testing is recommended.

53 54 Useful Contacts

* All pet shop licences are issued by your local authority who should be your first point of contact

General www.defra.gsi.gov.uk

British Veterinary Zoological Society Email: [email protected] Local Government Regulation (LACORS) Local Government House Chartered Institute of Environmental Health Smith Square Chadwick Court London 15 Hatfields SW1P 3HZ London SE1 8DJ Telephone: 020 7664 3000 Telephone: 020 7928 6006 Email: [email protected] www.cieh.org www.local.gov.uk/regulation

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Animal Welfare Unit Veterinary Contacts Nobel House 17 Smith Square British Small Animal Veterinary Association London Woodrow House SW1P 3JR 1 Telford Way Telephone: 08459 33 55 77 Waterwells Business Park Email: [email protected] Quedgeley 55 Gloucester GL2 2AB Oxon Telephone: 01452 726700 OX18 4PF www.bsava.com Tel: 01993 822651 [email protected] www.bluecross.org.uk British Veterinary Association 7 Mansfield Street FOCAS London www.focas-uk.info W1G 9NQ Telephone: 020 7636 6541 Pet Care Trust Email: [email protected] Bedford Business Centre www.bva.co.uk 170 Mile Road Bedford Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons MK42 9TW Belgravia House Telephone: 01234 273 933 62-64 Horseferry Road www.petcare.org.uk London SW1P 2AF People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) www.rcvs.org.uk Head Office Whitechapel Way All Species Priorslee Telford The Blue Cross Shropshire Shilton Road TF2 9PQ Burford Telephone: 01952 290999 56 www.pdsa.org.uk www.woodgreen.org.uk

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals RSPCA Enquiries Service Cats Wilberforce Way Southwater Cats Protection Horsham National Cat Centre West Sussex Chelwood Gate RH13 9RS Haywards Heath Telephone: 0300 1234 555 Sussex www.rspca.org.uk RH17 7TT Telephone: 03000 12 12 12 Wood Green Animal Shelters Email: [email protected] Kings Bush Farm www.cats.org.uk London Road Godmanchester Feline Advisory Bureau Cambs Taeselbury PE29 2NH High Street Telephone: 0844 248 8181 Tisbury Email: [email protected] 57 Wiltshire EC1V 7RQ SP3 6LD Telephone: 0207 833 7685 Telephone: 01747 871872 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]. www.dogstrust.org.uk www.fabcats.org The Kennel Club 1-5 Clarges Street Piccadilly London W1J 8AB Governing Council of the Cat Fancy Telephone: 0207 518 1031 5 King's Castle Business Park Email: [email protected] The Drove www.thekennelclub.org.uk Bridgwater Somerset Fish TA6 4AG Telephone: 01278 427575 Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association Email: [email protected] 1st Floor Office Suite www.gccfcats.org Wessex House 40 Station Road Dogs Westbury Wiltshire Dogs Trust BA13 3JN 17 Wakley Street Tel: 01373 301353 London www.ornamentalfish.org 58 Petlog Microchipping distributors & databases The Kennel Club 4A Alton House Microchipping Advisory Group Gatehouse Way www.bsava.com/Advice/MicrochipAdvice Aylesbury Bucks HP19 8XU National Dog Tattoo Register Telephone: 0844 463 3999 Telephone: 01255 552455 Email: [email protected] www.dog-register.co.uk www.petlog.org.uk

Animalcare Telephone: 01904 487 687 Pet Protect Email: [email protected] Furness House www.animalcare.co.uk 53 Brighton Road Redhill AVID Plc Surrey RH1 6RD PO Box 190 Telephone: 0800 587 0660 Lewes www.petprotect.co.uk East Sussex BN7 9GD Rabbits and small mammals Telephone: 0800 652 7 977 Email: [email protected] British Rabbit Council www.avidplc.com Purefoy House 59 7 Kirkgate Newark Animal Medicines Training Regulatory Authority Notts NG24 1AD Unit 1c, Woolpit Business Park Telephone: 01636 676042 Windmill Avenue www.thebrc.org Woolpit Bury St Edmunds Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund IP30 9UP PO Box 603 Telephone: 01359 245801 Horsham Email: [email protected] West Sussex RH13 5WL www.amtra.org.uk Telephone: 0844 324 6090 Email: [email protected] www.rabbitwelfare.co.uk

Reptiles City & Guilds REPTA (Reptile & Exotic Pet Trade Association) 1 Giltspur Street Telephone: 02380 440999 London Email: [email protected] EC1A 9DD www.repta.org Telehone: 0844 543 0000 www.cityandguilds.com

Qualifications and Training *Contact your local technical or agricultural for information on LANTRA current training and qualifications Lantra House 60 Stoneleigh Park Coventry Warwickshire CV8 2LG Telephone: 0845 707 8007 Email: [email protected] www.lantra.co.uk