Our Pets Policy

Written By Matthew Marsh

The aim of Prima Group’s pet policy is to provide guidance on the type and breeds of animals permitted within Prima Group properties, applying to our tenants.

The following animals are prohibited:

  • Any mammal, bird or invertebrate that requires a license under The Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976, The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and any subsequent amendments of these acts

  • Any hybrid of domestic dog and those identified in the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 that needs licensing.

  • Further to this, Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 prohibits four types of dogs: Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasilero, Japanese Tosa, Pit Bull Terrier.

XL Bully

The Government made it illegal to own an XL Bully dog in the UK from the 1st of February 2024. Prima tenants who own an XL Bully dog needed to apply for a ‘Certificate of Exemption’ to legally keep their pet beyond the 31st of January 2024.

Owners of an XL Bully must have a Certificate of Exempttion for the dog, and follow the rules set out, which include:

  • Microchipping the dog

  • Muzzling the dog and keeping them on a lead in public.

  • Neutering the dog

  • Taking out third-party insurance (also known as public liability insurance) against the dog injuring other people - this can be provided through Dogs Trust Membership.

  • Be over 16 years old.

On 5 Dec 2024, an update was announced to allow for a replacement caregiver for exempted XL Bully dogs if the original owner dies or becomes seriously ill. 

If you are found in possession of an XL Bully dog without a Certification of Exemption, the law may subject you to a criminal record and an unlimited fine, and authorities could also seize your dog. 

Owners of XL Bully dogs with a Certificate of Exemption are required to provide evidence of insurance on request (within five days). 

Prima will hold details of legally registered XL Bully dogs on a risk register, Prima will ensure the property and boundary is secure and will be assessed on a regular basis. Alerts will be implemented onto the housing management system, so staff and contractors are aware. 

Other Prohibited Animals

  • Any hybrid of domestic cat and those identified in the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 that requires licensing. 

  • Any type of farm animals e.g. chickens, goats, pigs. 

  • Any type of bird of prey e.g. Kestrel, buzzard, owls. 

  • Exotic pets such as reptiles e.g. snakes, lizards, venomous or dangerous spiders, terrapins. 

  • Primates including all species of monkeys. 

  • Any animal that requires external kennels, runs and aviaries except for guide dogs and hearing dogs. 

For more information regarding Prima Group’s Pets Policy, read our document linked here

Matthew Marsh
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