Under the new regulations, a licence will last for either 1, 2 or 3 years. Prior to the issue of a licence we will undertake an inspection of your premises. During the inspection we will consider two main aspects:
Firstly the welfare standards observed, which are based upon assessment of a range of criteria, including records, staffing, the environment, diet, and the protection of the animals from pain and suffering. The inspection findings will determine whether there are 'minor failings', 'minimum standards' or 'higher standards' have been met.
Secondly, the risk, which is largely based on the history of compliance of the business, and also upon the licence holder's appreciation of hazards and risks. The overall risk will be determined as being either 'low' or 'higher'.
The inspection findings will be fed into the following scoring matrix which determines both the licence duration, and a star rating which will be given to a business.
Scoring matrix | Risk | Welfare Standards |
| | Minor Failings | Minimum Standards | Higher Standards |
| Low Risk | 1 Star
(1 year licence) | 3 Star
(2 year licence) | 5 Star
(3 year licence) |
| Higher Risk | 1 Star
(1 year licence) | 2 Star
(1 year licence) | 4 Star
(2 year licence) |
The standards relate to:
- Safety
- Security
- Infectious disease control
- The suitability of the licence holder
The aim is to:
- Ensure the welfare of animals
- Prevent the spread of disease
- Ensure the safety of the public visiting these premises
Periodic inspections are carried out to confirm standards are maintained. We will also investigate all complaints.
