When leaving your beloved dog in the care of a business—whether it’s a doggy daycare, home boarding, or a pet sitter—it’s essential to ensure they are licensed and properly trained. Under UK law, many animal-related businesses must hold an Animal Activity Licence (AAL) issued by their local authority. This isn’t just a formality—it ensures that your pet is being cared for by someone who meets strict welfare and safety standards.
So, what exactly is Animal Activity Licensing, and why should you always check that a business is registered before leaving your dog with them?
What is Animal Activity Licensing?
Animal Activity Licensing (AAL) was introduced under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018. This legislation sets out specific requirements for businesses that involve animals, ensuring they meet high welfare standards.
Businesses that must hold an AAL include:
✅ Dog boarding (home or commercial kennels)
✅ Doggy daycare services
✅ Dog breeders
✅ Pet selling businesses
✅ Dog training businesses (if they board dogs overnight)
A valid Animal Activity Licence means that the business has been inspected by the local authority, meets strict welfare conditions, and follows regulations designed to keep animals safe.
Why Should You Check If a Business is Licensed?
1️⃣ Proof of Professionalism and Competence
A licensed business must comply with minimum welfare standards, including:
🔹 Proper hygiene and safety measures
🔹 Suitable living environments for dogs
🔹 Proper socialisation and enrichment activities
🔹 The ability to respond to emergencies
This means your dog is in safer hands with a licensed provider than with someone who operates illegally.
2️⃣ First Aid Training is Mandatory
One crucial requirement of a licensed pet business is that they must have a minimum Level 2 Dog First Aid Qualification, OFQUAL registered.
This means that in case of an accident or emergency, the person looking after your dog will have the skills to:
🩹 Recognise and respond to medical emergencies
🚑 Provide immediate care for injuries
💙 Potentially save your dog’s life
Without this training, an unlicensed provider may not know what to do in a crisis.
3️⃣ Legal and Financial Risks of Unlicensed Businesses
Leaving your dog with an unlicensed business isn’t just risky—it can have serious consequences:
❌ No insurance coverage – Many pet insurers won’t cover incidents that occur at an unlicensed business. If something happens to your dog, you may be left with huge vet bills.
❌ Risk of neglect or mistreatment – Without inspections, there’s no way to know if the business meets basic welfare standards.
❌ Possible closure during your holiday – If the local council inspects and finds a business operating without a license, they may shut them down immediately. Imagine being on holiday, only to find out your dog’s carer has been closed by authorities—leaving your pet in an uncertain situation.
How to Check If a Business is Licensed
Before booking, always:
✔ Ask to see their Animal Activity Licence – Licensed businesses must display their licence number and issuing council.
✔ Check with your local council – Most councils list licensed pet businesses online.
✔ Look for training and qualifications – Ask if they have OFQUAL Level 2 Dog First Aid certification.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Take Risks with Your Dog’s Safety
As responsible dog parents, we go to great lengths to ensure our pets are happy and healthy. Choosing a licensed, trained, and inspected provider gives peace of mind that your dog is in safe hands.
💡 Before booking pet care, always check their licensing status—because your dog’s safety, wellbeing, and happiness should always come first!
👉 Looking to improve your own pet care knowledge? Join our Dog First Aid Training Classes to learn life-saving skills that every dog owner and professional should know! 🚑🐶
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