Animal Rescue with Marion Garnett
Dedicated animal expert Marion Garnett, founder of the Ealing Animal Charities Fair, continues her column
WE all have subjects that are dear to our heart. Certain pieces of music, particular places - the possibilities are endless.
I know because you’ve told me that one subject close to many readers’ hearts are the barriers preventing people from owning a pet because they live in rented accommodation. Most landlords don’t allow tenants to have pets.
Research by Battersea Dogs and Cats Home shows that whilst 76% of renters either currently own or would like to own an animal companion, according to Zoopla, just 7% of private landlords list their properties as allowing pets.
But hope is on the horizon. The government recently introduced the Renters’ Reform Bill which will give tenants the right to request a pet in their home.
Landlords must consider this and cannot unreasonably refuse. In addition, landlords will have the power to ask renters to take out pet insurance to cover any damage to their property.
Not only would the introduction of this law mean more people can enjoy pet ownership but also it would reduce the number of animals given up for rehoming due to restrictive pet policies.
In the meantime, as we wait for the Bill to progress through parliament, both Battersea and Dogs Trust provide valuable advice for both landlords and renters.
For example, Battersea (battersea.org.uk) offers advice for renters on how to ask your landlord to allow pets and, as part of their Lets with Pets scheme, Dogs Trust (letswithpets.org.uk) gives top tips for pet owners on how to show prospective landlords you’re a responsible pet owner.
Now back to things close to our hearts. One of Battersea’s tasks when assessing animals for rehoming is to find out what each animal holds close to their hearts – tennis balls, toys, treats.
By all accounts, Perry loves toys, galloping round the garden and playing games. Perry’s a Lurcher who’s currently in foster care with Battersea Old Windsor.
He demonstrates his love by leaning against people and asking for neck scratches. He’s learnt a lot at Battersea and his training will need to continue in his new home. If you’re interested in homing this beautiful boy, see battersea.org.uk.
Finally, don’t forget the Piccadilly Animals Fair takes place on June 24 (10.30am-4.15pm) in the Courtyard of St James’s Church, Piccadilly W1J 9LL.
There will be lots of stalls in a very beautiful central London setting. There’s so much to do round there. Visiting the Fair could be part of a fabulous day out. Admission is free. More details from piccadillyanimalsfair.london.