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New Law Could Make It Easier For Renters To Keep Pets In Their Homes
Campaigners say a new law gives pets in need of a home the chance to be rescued.
They claim that legislation aimed at preventing landlords from issuing blanket bans on pets will give needy cats and dogs the chance to be rescued by animal-loving renters.
YouGov research revealed 40% of renters surveyed have previously been unable to get a pet due to housing restrictions, and almost a fifth (19%) have even been forced to give one up.
But the Renters’ Rights Bill is set to receive Royal Assent and become law soon, giving tenants the right to request pets in their homes.
Almost half (45%) of the 2008 private renters surveyed say they’re now likely to welcome a new or additional pet into their home.
Pet care firm Mars and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home have been leading the campaign to change the law and highlight the benefits of renting with pets, with the support of advocates in parliament.
70% of pet parents questioned cited the mental health and well-being benefits of animals as their reason for ownership.
This means millions of renters can now enjoy the companionship of a pet without fear of being turned away or forced to give them up.
Mars and Battersea have been campaigning to improve the rights of pet owners in rental properties for more than three years.
They worked with Lord Black of Brentwood, who has led the campaign from within the House of Lords.
This campaign supports Mars’ mission to create a future where every pet has a home, and every home can have a pet.
Mars and Battersea aim to raise awareness of what this means for pet owners, with only 8% aware of what the changes actually mean.
Mars Pet Nutrition’s general manager for UK, Ireland and Nordics, Nick Foster, said: “Pets really do make a house a home and we’re incredibly proud of our work with our long-term partners at Battersea to help bring about this important law change.
“The Government’s decision to remove unnecessary barriers to pet ownership for renters recognises just how much it means to people and families across the country.
“We’re so pleased that this opens the door to more people than ever being able to experience the happiness and wellbeing benefits that come from being a pet parent.”
Lord Guy Black, Baron Black of Brentwood, said: “This legislation marks the start of a long-overdue cultural shift.
“It will ensure the huge benefits of pet ownership are no longer limited to those who own their own homes but can be shared by millions who rent in England.
“As a pet owner myself, I can’t imagine how distressing it would be to have to choose between my home and my pet. I hope these days will now be behind us.
“I’ve greatly valued working with organisations such as Mars and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to ensure this legislation truly delivers and I am hugely grateful to them for their campaigning support.”
The increased number of renters looking to own a pet opens the door for fostering and adoption opportunities.
Organizations such as Battersea Dogs & Cats Home are encouraging renters to consider dogs and cats in need of forever homes.
Peter Laurie, Chief Executive of Battersea, said: “For years Battersea has witnessed the heartbreaking reality of families forced to part with their beloved pets because of restrictive housing policies.
“The Renters’ Rights Bill will finally break that cycle and millions of renters will now have the chance to experience the joy and companionship that pet ownership brings.
“Having long campaigned alongside Mars for this change, it is heartening to see that a future where no one is forced to choose between a home and their pet is now within reach.”
This landmark legislation marks a pivotal moment for renters and pet lovers across the country, removing longstanding barriers to ownership and empowering millions to enjoy the emotional benefits of pets.
Mars and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home remain committed to driving awareness and supporting a more inclusive rental landscape, one where pets are not just permitted, but welcomed.
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