Council champions animal welfare in Thanet

Thanet District Council has successfully challenged a dog boarding business in Thanet, under the Animal Welfare Regulations 2018. 

Following an unannounced inspection of the Manston Boarding Kennels, the council issued a Non-Consent Variation Notice on 24 May 2023. The notice identified 17 breaches of the statutory conditions attached to the premises’ Animal Activities Licence, issued in January 2023, as well as concerns for the welfare of the animals on site. The Notice required significant improvements to be made to the kennels. 

This enforcement action was brought as the kennel’s management had failed to address concerns previously raised by council officers, despite being given advice on several occasions. 

The Variation Notice was appealed by the licensees on a number of grounds. An attempt was made to rely upon exemptions under the guidance to avoid providing kennel units with dedicated exercise runs, which the Animal Welfare Regulations stipulate. 

At a First-tier Tribunal held on Thursday 1 February 2024, a judge upheld the notice. The owners of Manston Kennels have now completed the necessary works to comply with the conditions of their new licence, and can now house up to 52 dogs in improved kennel facilities. 

Mike Humber, Director of Environment at Thanet District Council, said: “This is a welcome outcome and will inform how the council deals with animal welfare cases in the future. I am proud of our Licensing team’s dedication to safeguarding the welfare of animals in Thanet. Their actions are key to ensuring that licensed establishments maintain appropriate standards.”

This action was brought under the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018.

Further information on animal welfare and licensing can be found on the council’s website.