Anyone who carries on the business of providing accommodation for other people's cats and dogs is required to have a licence. The aim of the licensing requirements is to achieve certain standards in the management of the accommodation and to ensure precautions against disease and fire.

In order to keep any animal classed as a 'dangerous wild animal' a licence is required. The local authority issues licences and, in addition to powers of inspection, can also seize any animal being kept on premises which are unlicensed. Zoos, pet shops and circuses are not included under this Licence as these premises are subject to separate licensing requirements. In the UK a schedule included with the relevant legislation contains a list of the various animals classed as 'dangerous wild animals

A licence is required to keep a breeding establishment for dogs. Premises must be inspected by a local authority officer and a vet prior to issuing of the licence.

It is an offence for anyone to train or exhibit a performing animal unless they are registered to do so. Legislation is designed to cover the use of animals in stage performances, at circuses, as part of exhibitions etc.

Regulation of the sale of pet animals from pet shops. Officers may inspect the premises to check compliance with general health and safety requirements and also the welfare of the animals prior to issuing of the licence. In the UK one of the legislative provisions is that a pet animal, as defined, cannot be sold to a person under the age of twelve.

Stables which hire out horses or ponies for riding or instruction must be licensed . A report is also required from a veterinary Surgeon or Practitioner.

Zoos are required to be licensed. A 'zoo' is classed as any establishment, other than a circus or pet shop, where animals are kept for public exhibition.