Frequently asked questions about pet shops

Pet shops and the sale of animals are regulated in accordance with the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Wales) Regulations 2021. This legislation was introduced from 10 September 2021 and changed the licensing requirements for the sale of animals as pets in Wales, which includes the ban on the commercial third-party sale of puppies and kittens. 

8 licences are currently in force in 2024 (as at May 2024)

2023: 7 licences issued
2022:  5 licences issued
2021:  8 licences issued

How frequently do they need to renew their licence?
The licences need to be renewed annually.

What are pet shops licensed to sell?

Pet shops in Swansea are licensed to sell reptiles, birds, fish and small mammals. No pet shops are licensed to sell dogs, cats or primates.

Upon what do you base your pet shop license conditions? 

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Wales) Regulation 2021.

Are all pet shops inspected by the council prior to the granting of a) the initial licence, b) renewal of licence?

Yes, by a Licensing Officer.

For what other reasons will you visit a pet shop?

Unannounced spot checks and complaints.

Do you require pet shops to declare they are selling and / or trading puppies / dogs / kittens - at either initial application, mid-way through an annual licence or on renewal?

Yes and all pet shops are inspected annually on licence renewal - if any shops were selling puppies / dogs / kittens it would be picked up at this stage. There are currently no pet shops in Swansea selling puppies / dogs / kittens.

What policy does the local authority have in relation to the frequency by which pet shops are a) informally visited by council officials, and b) inspected?

Pet shops are formally inspected by council officers on an annual basis for licensing, and at any other time following a complaint.

Do you ask pet shop licence applicants if they have any restrictions / disqualifications from keeping animals / pet shops / or any other relevant restrictions / disqualifications?

Yes upon application.

What happens if a member of the public has a concern about a licenced pet shop or the sale of animals?

If you are concerned about the practices of a licensed pet shop / sale of animals or the conditions that the animals are being kept in then please contact Animal Licensing section at evh.licensing@swansea.gov.uk giving as much detail as possible of your concern. An officer will contact you and if necessary, clarify any additional points.

A licence will not be issued if someone has any convictions relating to any animal welfare offences.

More information: Pet shops