Petition · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Make species-specific training, advice and care mandatory for pet shop staff.

Open for signatures 2,156 signatures

What the petition asks

Pet shops in the UK may give outdated or harmful advice, leading to poor care and preventable illness. There is no legal requirement for species-specific knowledge. We call on the Government to make these training and care standards mandatory.
Pet shops are often the first source of advice for new owners, yet there is no requirement for staff to have species-specific knowledge. This can result in incorrect guidance on diet, lighting, and housing, leading to preventable illness and suffering. Mandatory training could improve welfare and ensure owners receive accurate, responsible advice.

Timeline

20 May 2026 Petition opened for signatures

Key facts

Signatures 2,156
Status Open for signatures
Department Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Opened 20 May 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.