Unlicensed animal operators are being targeted with the introduction of a new animal licence tool, Paws on the Doors. With a launch event at Colchester Town Hall on 10 March, the online tool enables animal licence holders, and people looking for animal services, to easily list themselves or search for top-rated service providers in the area.
The invite-only event, taking place between 11am and 12 noon, will be attended by The Mayor, Cllr Lesley Scott-Boutell, animal licence operators and the founders of Paws on the Doors.
The website, which can be found here, lets pet owners easily search licensed providers, check ratings, and find trusted services across council boundaries, acting as a central database.
Animal welfare is at the forefront of this tool, supported by local animal licence holders. “Working with animals has been a passion of mine for many years and spending quality time with animals, in any capacity, is a privilege. Ensuring their welfare is part of that.” said Sara, owner of Finley’s Farm.
“Many people, whether that be those looking to buy a puppy or train their horse, don’t want to seem confrontational when asking to see a licence. Paws on the Doors lets customers easily research before taking the next step which is game changing!”
Sara continues: “Finding licence information has been very difficult in the past, and many selling and advertisement sites simply don’t do enough checks before allowing adverts to be publicised. To me, this looks like the beginning of eradicating sellers or service providers that don’t meet good animal welfare standards.”
In 2018, the government introduced licensing and star ratings for animal establishments who are now required, by law, to have a license when they have a trading income of over £1,000. These licence holders will then be star-rated from one to five by their local authority, based on their standards. This information will then be fed into Paws on the Doors, providing a central point of information. In turn, unlicensed operators, illegal breeders and those with poor welfare standards will be easier to spot, shut down and hit with enforcement action and fines.
Cllr Natalie Sommers, Portfolio Holder for Communities, Heritage and Public Protection, said: “I’m really excited about the launch of Paws on the Doors. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that helps pet owners, or budding pet owners, find trustworthy, licensed services in their area, making it easier for everyone to make the right choices for their animals. It’s great to see a focus on animal welfare and supporting local businesses at the same time – this tool is a real step in the right direction.”
Page last reviewed: 5 March 2025