The operator of a business carrying out cat and dog grooming does not currently require a licence, however the activity must at all times comply with the Animal Welfare Act 2006. The Canine & Feline Sector Group (CFSG), a group made up of animal welfare, veterinary, enforcement, and industrial organisations has published recently a new set of Grooming Guidelines for Dog and Cat Groomers. These guidelines aim to establish a national baseline for good practice in a currently unregulated area of the pet sector.
The guidelines can be viewed on the Canine & Feline Sector Group website.
The Pet Industry Federation website also has a range of information.
Planning permission may be required if you wish to set up a dog or cat grooming business, enquiries should be made to planning.admin@gravesham.gov.uk.
To make a complaint about the welfare of animals at a dog or cat groomer please contact the RSPCA by calling 0300 123 8960.
To make a noise complaint about a dog or cat groomer please use our online noise compaint form.