Make species-specific training, advice and care mandatory for pet shop staff.
Pet shops in the UK may give outdated or harmful advice, leading to poor care and preventable illness.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.
Signatures
37
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 37/10,000
Debate threshold (100,000) · 37/100,000
- 20 MAY 2026Petition opened for signaturesCreated by Katie Taylor
Background
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.