Request permission to keep a pet

If you are a tenant or resident you need permission to keep a pet. You can normally only get permission for 2 animals.

Permission to keep a pet form
1. Request it

You can request permission to keep a pet by completing the form above or by calling, emailing, visiting or writing to SHP.

When you request permission we'll need to know:

  • type of animal

  • its size

  • its breed

  • its colour

  • any trace recording method (e.g. dog chipping)

You will also need to provide a picture of the animal.

2. We review your request

Permission will not be given for:

  • animals registered under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976

  • farm animals e.g. horses, cattle, pigs

  • chickens or ducks

  • dogs registered under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991  

Dangerous dogs include:

  • Pitt Bull Terrier

  • XL Bully

  • Japense Tosa

  • Dogo Argentino

  • Fila Brasileiro

We also will not give permission if there are ongoing or past problems with pet ownership.

Due to the recent change in legislation, XL Bully dog breeds have now also been added to the list of  Dangerous Dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. 

If you have previously been granted permission and your dog is an XL Bully then this permission will now be revoked and you will need to apply for permission again providing the following information as well as completing the pet permission request form:

  • supply the Certificate of Exemption
  • supply third party public liability insurance against the dog
  • supply the registered  microchipped serial number
  • supply documentation that the dog has been neutered within the timescales of the legislation. 

If permission is granted, it will strictly be for the term of the third party Public Liability Insurance only and you will be responsible for providing Sutton Housing Partnership the new certificate of insurance once renewed otherwise permission will be withdrawn. The owner must also follow the legislation as detailed below, in addition to the conditions as outlined in the tenancy conditions:

  • kept on a lead and muzzled at all times when in a public place
  • kept in a secure place so it cannot escape

For further support or information please see the government website or you can contact your Housing Manager or Sutton Housing Partnership. Below is a list of leading animal welfare organisations that can also offer advice and support.

Blue Cross
Dogs Trust
PDSA
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home

3. We tell you our decision

We will tell you whether you have permission to keep the pet or not by email. We will also update our records.  

Things to keep in mind

  • if you have rent arrears we may refuse your request

  • you are responsible for animals kept in your home, their care and supervision at all times.

  • you must not allow your pet to cause:

    • nuisance and Anti-social behaviour

    • annoyance

    • danger

    • noise that disturbs others

    • damage to your home or council property

    • fouling or mess in communal areas

    • your home to become unhygienic

  • we will take action if you fail to control your pet or you are cruel to it.