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Changes to help renters keep pets announced in King’s Speech
The King's Speech sets out the government's legislative plans for the coming months.
Tenants will have a new right to request a pet.

Renters could soon have greater rights when it comes to pet ownership under legislation announced by the new government in its first King’s Speech.

The Renters’ Rights Bill is set to give tenants the right to request a pet, which landlords will have to consider and will be unable to unreasonably refuse.

The bill will also allow landlords to request insurance to cover any potential damage from pets.

A similar change to the law had been proposed by the previous government as part of its own Renters (Reform) Bill. However, the legislation failed to make it through Parliament before the general election.

The new bill has been welcomed by charities such as the RSPCA, Dogs Trust and Cats Protection.

David Bowles, head of public affairs at the RSPCA, said: “We believe that the Renters’ Rights Bill will give tenants a legal right to have a pet, unless there is a justifiable reason not to do so - ending blanket bans that exist at present on the keeping of beloved companion animals in rental homes.

“The RSPCA has long campaigned for this change - as we believe this will stop many pet owners having to face the heartbreaking choice of choosing between finding accommodation and keeping their pet; and also offer countless new owners the chance to adopt rescue pets.”

However, some elements of the King’s Speech have been criticised within the veterinary profession. The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has expressed its disappointment over the lack of animal welfare legislation in the speech.

Anna Judson, president of the BVA, said: “Whilst we understand the new government has many challenges to tackle, it’s disappointing that today’s King’s Speech doesn't prioritise any of its election manifesto commitments to animal welfare or its plans to deliver improved trade with the EU through a proposed veterinary agreement.

“I urge the Prime Minister and his team to press on with this important work and the British Veterinary Association stands ready to ensure that the necessary detail is correct.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.