Pets

Which pets are fine to have without permission

For some kinds of pets you won’t need our permission but for others you will.

If you are thinking about getting a small animal like a hamster, guinea pig, rabbit or mouse you don’t normally need our permission.

For other pets

It depends on a number of factors, including the type of home you have with us, your occupation contract, and the type of animal it is. You may also want to learn more about the type of pet you are considering so you know the level of commitment – the RSPCA website has load of advice on many different types of pets which may help you decide if a pet is right for you.

XL Bullys and banned dog breeds

Generally, we will not give permission for residents to have the breeds of dog outlined in the Dangerous Dogs Act (1991) in a Melin property. In the case of XL Bully dogs, Melin will only consider requests for permission where the owner can provide evidence of having the relevant Certificate of Exemption. Given the legal requirements of owning an XL Bully dog, we will report ownership to the police if owners do not have a Certificate of Exemption or we are not sure if one exists. This is for the safety of our residents and the wider community.

If you have concerns regarding XL Bullys in your neighbourhood, you should report these to the police on 101. As ever, in an emergency, you should call for the police on 999.

Important notice for dog owners

If you have a dog, you are legally obliged to pick up after it. When walking your dog outside always carry poo bags with you, scoop the poop and dispose of it hygienically. Every local authority provides dog poo bins.

Dog poo is not only messy and unpleasant, it is also hazardous to humans and pets. It can carry diseases like E. coli or worms. If it isn’t disposed of appropriately, it can get washed into our water systems by the rain and infiltrate drinking and swimming water.

Not picking up after your pet can also lead to a fine. Be a responsible dog owner and scoop the poop.

If you’re aware of dog fouling hot spots you can report it to your local authority.