Responsible pet ownership

In some cases you can keep a pet, but you must ask us for permission first by completing a Pet Application form. Your neighbourhood housing officer will contact you within five days of receiving your form.

If permission for a pet is given, but you have not told us all the details of your new pet in your application, you'll need to complete a New Pet Details form before you bring your pet home. The number of pets you can keep depends on the size and type of your home. A separate application must be completed for each pet. Different rules apply to our Kent Extra Care homes. 

We are reviewing our policy for XL Bully dogs, which are now a banned breed. If you own an XL Bully, please let us know as soon as possible by completing this form so we can give permission.

Being a responsible pet owner means

  • making sure your pet is micro-chipped and neutered- breeding is not allowed in West Kent homes 

  • making sure your pet has enough exercise and entertainment 

  • cleaning up after your pet at home and outside

  • making sure your pet is not causing a nuisance to neighbours 

Read our Pets Policy

  • Advice for dog owners

    All pets in West Kent homes need to be micro-chipped and neutered. It's the law that dogs have to be microchipped, and if your dog is found by the police or local authority without a microchip you could face a fine of up to £500. Full details are available at Gov.uk

    As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to make sure you keep your dog under control and that you always clean up after it. Barking and whining can cause a nuisance to neighbours and may be a sign that your dog’s needs aren’t being met. Dogs aren't allowed in any communal areas.

    If you have concerns about your dog's behaviour, contact your vet or an animal welfare organisation such as the RSPCA. You can also come along to one of our dog roadshows for advice- see our events page to find out when the next one is happening. 

     

  • Advice for cat owners

    All pets in West Kent homes need to be micro-chipped and neutered. If you want to install a cat flap you will need to complete a home improvement enquiry form first. Pet owners must always clean up after their animals.  Indoor cats will need extra nutrition, space to exercise and hide and toys to play with. 

    Find out more about looking after a cat here 

  • Problems with neighbours' animals

    We will record complaints of nuisance behaviour about a pet or other animal living at any property as an anti-social behaviour complaint. Please see our Pets Policy for more information. If you would like to discuss a concern, please contact us. 

    Suspected cruelty or neglect should be reported in the first instance to the RSPCA.

  • Cost of a pet

    Before you decide to get a pet, you’ll need to make sure you can afford it. As well as the up-front cost of buying the animal, you’ll need to think about the ongoing costs such as food and vet bills. The average cost of keeping a dog over its life time is:

    • Small breeds: £6,500 to £12,000
    • Medium breeds: £8,500 to £13,000
    • Large breeds: £7,400 to £17,000

    That works out between £70 and £105 each month. Find out more about meeting the needs of your dog and the costs involved here.

    The estimated cost of keeping a cat over its lifetime is £12,000 as a minimum. Find out more about meeting the needs of your cat and the costs involved here.

    These costs could be even higher if they have additional health needs.

For more information from recognised animal welfare organisations visit the following websites