Selling animals as pets
You need a licence to sell pet animals. This includes all commercial selling of pet animals, including pet shops and businesses selling animals over the internet.
A licence is required for any premises where animals are sold, including a private home.
Apply for a licence
The form below can be used to apply for different types of animal welfare licences and registration.
To apply for a licence to sell pet animals, you must complete sections 1, 2 and 7.
Application form for an animal welfare licence or registration
The completed form and relevant documents can be emailed to us at the address below.
Fees
For new or renewed licences, the grant fee can either be paid:
- upon application – the full amount of grant fee will be refunded if the application is refused
- following inspection, when the licence is ready to be issued
| Licence activity | Fee details | Fee total |
|---|---|---|
| New licence | £280 application fee, plus £75 grant fee if application is approved | £355 |
| Renewal | £280 application fee, plus £75 grant fee if renewal is approved | £355 |
| Variation to licence | £85 application fee, plus £137 inspection fee | £222 |
| Re-evaluation of rating | £85 application fee, plus £137 inspection fee | £222 |
| Variation to reduce licensable activities or number of animals | £85 application fee | £85 |
| Transfer of licence | £85 application fee | £85 |
| Appeal | £137 inspection fee, to be refunded if appeal is successful | £137 |
| Combination of licensable animal welfare activities | £280 application fee, plus £140 per additional activity, plus £75 grant fee per activity if application is approved, plus vets fees if required for inspection | £355 plus £215 per additional activity, plus vets fees if required |
Licence conditions
For government guidance on applying and the conditions you'll need to meet, go to GOV.UK: Selling animals as pets licence.
To read the government's guidance for licensing authorities, go to GOV.UK: Animal activities licensing – statutory guidance for local authorities.
Check a licence
You can check online whether a pet shop is licensed in Thurrock.
Making a complaint
Contact us if you have reason to complain about a pet shop that we license. You should tell us:
- your name and phone number
- details of the premises you wish to complain about
- details of your complaint or problem
All complaints are dealt with in the strictest confidence. Your details will not be released but are needed so we can contact you for further information.