Over half the households in the UK own a pet, whether they're conventional pets or more unusual animals. There are laws that regulate the keeping of pets and additional laws that apply to unusual pets.

This section looks at the legal regulations involved in keeping a pet.

Introduction to your legal rights

Before buying or selling your pet, you'll need to make sure you've followed your legal responsibilities. See this section to see what laws are involved.

Dangerous animals

If you own a dangerous animal, you must ensure you create no risk to members of the public and look after the animals. View this section for more information.

Horses or ponies

Any person buying a horse or pony has the same rights as if they bought any other goods. Read this section to make sure you're abiding by the rules of buying or selling this animal.

Dogs or puppies

There are specific laws related to the buying and selling of dogs generally, and extra laws related to dangerous dogs. See this section to make sure you're following the rules.

Cats or kittens

If you're buying or selling a cat or kitten, make sure you know your rights and that the seller is complying with the law.