Pets bring comfort, companionship, and joy. Whether it’s a dog that keeps you active or a cat that curls up beside you, animals can make a real difference to your wellbeing.

This guidance is here to help you enjoy pet ownership responsibly. We’re not here to enforce rules.  We want you to feel confident, supported, and part of a community where everyone can live well together.

What counts as a pet?

A pet is a domesticated animal kept mainly for companionship, enjoyment, or emotional support. Common examples include:

• Dogs
• Cats
• Rabbits
• Small mammals such as guinea pigs or hamsters
• Birds (such as budgies or canaries)
• Fish

Pets are not working animals, livestock, or wild/exotic species. If you’re unsure whether your animal qualifies as a pet, just ask – we’re happy to clarify.

Thinking about getting a pet?

Before welcoming a pet into your home, think carefully about:

• Space: Is your home suitable for the animal’s size and needs?
• Time: Do you have time for feeding, cleaning, and exercise?
• Cost: Can you afford food, vet bills, insurance, and other essentials?
• Neighbours: Could your pet’s behaviour (such as barking or roaming) affect others?
• Commitment: Pets live for years. Are you ready for that responsibility?

If you’re choosing a pet to support your wellbeing or mental health, we want to help you feel confident and make the right choice.

When should you let ateb know?

Most customers don’t need to ask permission to have a pet. Please contact us first if:

• You share an entrance, hallway, or garden with neighbours
• Your pet is on the Dangerous Wild Animals Act list or is considered a high-risk breed
• Your pet has a history of aggression or is subject to a legal warning or order
• You’d like to keep more than two pets
• You plan to build a cage, aviary, or animal shelter in your garden
• You’re fostering animals or caring for them in larger numbers

We’ll guide you through the steps to make sure your pet and your community can live happily together.

Living well together

Being a good neighbour helps everyone enjoy their homes. Please:

• Keep your pet’s area clean and hygienic
• Keep pets under control in shared or public areas
• Clean up after your pet
• Avoid letting pets roam freely or disturb others

If issues arise, we’ll always work with you to find a solution before taking formal action.

Pets during visits

When our staff or contractors visit your home, we kindly ask that pets are secured in a separate room for the duration of the visit. This isn’t because we don’t love animals – it’s to make sure everyone stays safe.

Even the friendliest pets can behave unpredictably in new situations, and unfortunately, there have been incidents where team members have been bitten. Securing pets protects our team and also helps reduce stress for your animal while any work is carried out.

Thank you for helping us keep visits safe and positive for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many pets can I have?

  You don’t need permission for up to two pets. If you’d like more, get in touch and we’ll look at your circumstances.

• Can I keep a pet in a flat or shared building?

  Yes, but if you share an entrance or garden, you’ll need permission.

• What if my pet supports my mental health?

  We understand the important role pets play. You don’t need formal proof, but if you have a letter from a GP or therapist, it can help us support your needs better.

• Do I need permission for every pet?

  No, unless you share communal areas or your pet is on the restricted list.

• What pets are unsuitable?

  Aggressive, noisy, unhygienic, or unsuitable animals may not be approved. This includes some exotic species, large dogs in small flats, or pets with a history of causing distress.

• Can I build a cage or shelter?

  Yes, but you’ll need written permission so we can check it’s safe and won’t affect neighbours.

• What if someone complains about my pet?

  We’ll talk to you first to understand the issue. Legal action is only a last resort.

• Can I foster or temporarily care for animals?

  Yes – but please let us know, especially if it’s long-term or more than two animals.

• What if I need help caring for my pet?

  We can connect you with local vets, charities, and support services. Just ask – we’re here to help.

Need advice?

Thinking about getting a pet? Unsure whether your home is suitable? Want to chat about your support needs?

Contact your housing coordinator or our Customer Service Centre on 01437 763688 – we’re here for you.