Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, a well-known UK pet charity, is calling for public support of the Renters’ Rights Bill, which includes provisions to allow tenants to keep pets, a significant step forward for pet owners in rental accommodations. The bill proposes that landlords should not be able to unreasonably refuse tenants who wish to have pets, a long-standing issue that has caused many families to surrender their beloved animals.

The charity highlights the emotional impact of these restrictive rental policies, sharing stories like that of Daisy, a pregnant Labrador, whose previous owners were forced to give her up due to the inability to find pet-friendly housing. Daisy’s case, and others like it, underscores the urgency of the reform, as housing issues remain one of the most common reasons pets are surrendered to Battersea.

Battersea’s public affairs manager, Ben Parker, emphasized that the Renters’ Rights Bill offers hope for thousands of pet owners who are currently faced with the difficult choice between keeping their pet or securing a home. He urged the public to support the legislation by contacting their MPs, stressing that pets are part of the family and should not be given up due to housing restrictions.

By working with the government and other stakeholders, Battersea aims to ensure no family has to surrender a pet because of where they live, hoping for a future where rental accommodations accommodate pet ownership.