Our Pet Friendly Properties campaign
Having to give up a pet because of housing issues is a unique type of heartbreak. It’s a heartbreak we witness at Battersea first-hand, and one that could so easily be avoided.
The last few years have demonstrated the many benefits of being able to own a pet, not only for our mental health and wellbeing, but also our feelings of connection to other people, our local community, and the outside world.
With more people than ever renting properties, we’re taking a stand to show that tenants deserve the chance to experience the joys of pet ownership. With our Pet Friendly Properties campaign, we want to achieve long-lasting, societal change, because we believe that everyone should have the choice to experience the joy of pet ownership, no matter where they live.
The future of pets and renting
Pet-Loving Tenants Face Housing Discrimination
Tenancy issues remain a leading reason why people are forced to give up their beloved pets to animal rescue charities like Battersea. This heartbreaking situation forces renters to choose between their beloved pets – pets they consider to be family - and stable housing.
Landmark Legislation Offers Hope for Pet-Owners
The Renters' Rights Bill is a significant step towards protecting the rights of pet-owning tenants. This legislation aims to prevent landlords from unreasonably denying pet requests. Thanks to advocacy from Battersea supporters, the Bill has been strengthened to include important provisions, such as shorter response times for landlords.
Join the Fight for Pet-Friendly Housing
Battersea will continue advocating for stronger pet-friendly housing policies. Your support is crucial in demonstrating the public's overwhelming desire for this change. Look out for opportunities to get involved in our campaign.
Real life stories
Thousands of pet-owning renters across the UK face challenges every day. From being automatically rejected by letting agents during their search for a home, to having to spend more than they can afford every month on disproportionately high rent, just because of their pet, tenants who own pets deserve better.
While the campaign for changes to the law around pets and tenancy agreements continues, there are lots of other resources, and more help is available:
Bringing a pet to Battersea, if you ever need to
