Battersea urges public to back Renters Rights Bill to help animals rejected by landlords

An animal welfare charity is urging the public to email their local MPs in support of the Renters’ Rights Bill, to help animals rejected by landlords under the current legislation.

The Renters’ Rights Bill, which includes provisions to protect pet owners, will receive its second reading in Parliament on October 9.

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s Pet Friendly Properties campaign has consistently advocated for landlords to consider pet requests reasonably, ensuring more tenants are able to keep their animals in rented accommodation. 

Ben Parker, public affairs manager at Battersea, said: “The measures in the Renters’ Rights Bill offers an opportunity for long-lasting change that will benefit thousands of pets and their owners. 

“We will continue to work with the Government and other stakeholders to secure a future where no one is forced to surrender their pet because of where they live.” 

Lack of suitable accommodation and housing issues are one of the most common causes dogs and cats are brought to the charity, Mr Parker said.

Daisy, a three-year-old heavily pregnant Labrador, was brought to Battersea when her previous owners were forced to move and unable to find any rented accommodation that allowed pets. 

Shortly after arriving at Battersea’s Old Windsor centre, she gave birth to a healthy litter of eight puppies. 

After five months of care, during which time her puppies were weaned and rehomed, Daisy also went to a new home. 

Mr Parker said: “The Renters’ Rights Bill has the power to stop situations like Daisy’s from happening in the future. 

“Pet owners shouldn’t be forced to choose between a home and their pet, and we’re urging the public to email their MPs and show support for this legislation. 

“Pets are part of the family, and the changes in this Bill offers hope to thousands of tenants across the UK.” 

 For more information and to take action, visit here.  

Pictured top: Daisy the Labrado who was brought to Battersea when her previous owners were unable to find rented accommodation that allowed pets (Picture: Battersea Dogs and Cats Home)