The RSPCA has major concerns about the breeding and supply of companion animals and the under-regulation of pet shops. We support the regulation and licensing of all pet shops, breeders and other companion animal vendors (including markets)to cover not only the way in which animals are kept and sold, but the way in which they are bred and supplied.

RSPCA Position Paper A4 Sale of companion animals from pet shops (see link below) sets out what the RSPCA believes should be the minimum requirements of a licensing system and code of practice for these types of shops.

Buying a puppy or kitten from a pet shop is particularly risky as you have no information on where the animal has come from or the conditions in which it was bred.

The RSPCA recommends that people looking for a new pet should check their RSPCA shelter or another reputable animal rescue group first. The assessment process for companion animals at RSPCA shelters means that prospective owners can be assured of getting a great pet that suits their family and lifestyle, while at the same time they are helping us to place an animal in need of a good home. One very important aspect that distinguishes the RSPCA from commercial animal sellers, such as pet shops, is that as well as assessing the suitability of animals for adoption, we also assess the suitability of prospective owners. This is a fundamental part of ensuring that the fit between owner and pet is a good and lasting one.

If prospective owners have their heart set on a specific breed, then we advocate that they find a good breeder so they can obtain the animal directly from the place where it was born. When potential buyers are able to visit animals at their place of birth it means that breeders are encouraged to have high standards (and in the case of dogs, an environment which is likely to produce a happy and well-socialised puppy).