Pets can be a great source of companionship and enrich our lives. While we understand that you may want a pet, we do need to consider the impact this can have on your home and neighbours. That’s why you need to contact us to request permission to keep pets in all circumstances.

There are certain animals that we won’t give you permission to keep, including some breeds of dog, as well as wild, farm and poisonous animals, or endangered species.

But, of course, guide, hearing and enabling dogs will automatically be granted.

What are my responsibilities as a pet owner?

It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the welfare of your pet and adhere to good pet ownership practice.

The main legal responsibility for pet owners is the Animal Welfare Act 2006 which requires owners to have a positive duty of care, and outlaws neglecting of an animals’ basic need, such as access to adequate nutrition and veterinary care.

You’re responsible for keeping your pets under control and appropriately cared for. They shouldn’t roam unsupervised, be a nuisance to neighbours or foul any other property.

Halton Housing will use guidance information from appropriate animal charities which gives general advice on pet ownership including neutering, vaccinations, insurance etc. and on their responsibilities as pet owners.

You must make sure your pet doesn’t damage your home, if it does, we’ll have to recharge you the cost of any repairs.

What kind of pets can I keep?

Permission will normally be granted for:

• small domestic animals – for example, dogs and/or cats and caged birds

Permission will not normally be granted for:

• farm animals – for example, sheep, goats, pigs, cattle, horses, chickens, and ducks

I already have a pet, do I need to do anything?

If you already have a pet please contact us to register their details, especially if you live in a flatted block or supported housing.

You will also need to seek permission should you want to replace your pet, and permission will be based on evidence of your previous responsible pet ownership.

What happens if someone complains about my pet?

When Halton Housing receives complaints about pets or pet ownership the Tenancy Enforcement team will contact the pet owner to investigate and discuss the concerns.

What do I do if I suspect an animal’s being subjected to cruelty and/or neglect?

If you suspect that a neighbour is guilty of cruelty or neglect towards an animal then you can report this to the RSPCA.

Where a member of Halton Housing staff witnesses cruelty or neglect, they will report this to the RSPCA. Where cruelty or neglect is reported to Halton Housing by a third party, they will also report this to the RSPCA making it clear that they have not witnessed this themselves. The person reporting this to Halton Housing will also be encouraged to contact the RSPCA.

Records on pet ownership will be kept within Halton Housing and appropriate staff will have access to this information, should it be required.

How do I request permission to keep a pet?

The quickest and easiest way you can request our permission to keep a pet in your home is via your MyHaltonHome account (in the ‘Tenancy’ section.

There are certain conditions which need to be upheld as stated in your Tenancy Agreement.

We aim to process all applications for a pet within five working days in order for you to welcome your new pet into your home.

You can view our Pet Procedure here.