House of Commons to debate licensing of animal rescue centres

The House of Commons will debate whether animal rescue and rehoming centres should be subject to mandatory licensing and regulation, following a petition that passed the 100,000‑signature threshold required for parliamentary consideration. The debate is scheduled for 26 January 2026, according to the official parliamentary calendar.

The petition, Introduce Licensing and Regulation for Dog and Cat Rescues to Protect Welfare, closed in October 2025 with 109,647 signatures. Supporters argue that the absence of a formal licensing regime allows some rescues to operate with poor welfare standards, limited transparency and, in some cases, links to irresponsible breeding practices. They say mandatory licensing and inspections would help ensure consistent welfare standards and improve public confidence in rescue organisations.

In its response, the Government said all rescue organisations are already required to comply with the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which places a duty of care on anyone responsible for an animal. It encouraged the public to report concerns to local authorities, which have investigative powers under existing law. Ministers also confirmed that a wider animal welfare strategy is in development, including a review of protections in rescue and rehoming centres and whether additional regulation is needed.

The debate will give MPs the opportunity to consider whether current legislation adequately protects animals in rescue settings, whether a licensing regime should be introduced and how any new requirements might affect voluntary and charitable rescue groups.