Dogs Trust celebrates ‘historic day’ for pet ownership in UK

The change, which came into effect on Friday, May 1, gives tenants in the private rented sector in England the legal right to request permission to keep pets in their rented homes.

Under the Renters’ Rights Act, landlords cannot unreasonably refuse pet requests, marking a significant shift for Oxfordshire renters who have long faced blanket pet bans.

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Dogs Trust pet-friendly housing lead Jennifer Leonard said: “Across the UK, one in seven requests we receive from people wishing to hand over care of their dog is due to a housing-related issue.

“Now, we hope that fewer renters will face the heartbreaking choice between finding a safe place to live and keeping their beloved pet.”

David Bowles, head of public affairs at the RSPCA, previously said: “This is an historic day for pet ownership.

“For too long, renters in England have been unfairly denied the potential joy of pet ownership.

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“That ends thanks to this new law.

“This change is a lifeline – not just for families wanting to add a loving pet to the household, but for the many thousands of animals currently stuck in many full-to-bursting centres, who will now have many new opportunities to find loving adopters.

“Pet ownership is such a big commitment – but can be so rewarding.

“At the RSPCA, we are celebrating that the Renters’ Rights Act will facilitate happier, healthier tenants right across the country – and help us tackle a pet rehoming crisis.”