Pet ownership in England could be set for a major rise following the introduction of new legislation.
Under the Renters Rights Act, tenants in the private rented sector now have the legal right to request permission to keep a pet, and landlords will not be able to refuse without a justified reason.
The RSPCA has hailed the change, which came into effect on Friday, May 1, as an “historic day for pet ownership.”
David Bowles, head of public affairs at the RSPCA, said: "For too long, renters in England have been unfairly denied the potential joy of pet ownership.
"That ends thanks to this new law.
"This change is a lifeline - not just for families wanting to add a loving pet to the household, but for the many thousands of animals currently stuck in many full-to-bursting centres, who will now have many new opportunities to find loving adopters.
"Pet ownership is such a big commitment, but can be so rewarding.
"At the RSPCA, we are celebrating that the Renters' Rights Act will facilitate happier, healthier tenants right across the country - and help us tackle a pet rehoming crisis."
Previously, landlords could impose blanket bans on pets in rental properties.
The change is expected to have a significant impact on rehoming efforts, especially as RSPCA centres are currently at capacity.
Mr Bowles said: "There are gut-wrenching examples of people having to surrender their pets to access somewhere to live, because their tenancy agreement will not allow pets.
"Thankfully, those situations too will soon be a thing of the past."
One long-term resident who could benefit is Sweeny, a mastiff at the RSPCA's Newbrook Farm Animal Centre in Birmingham.
Sweeny has spent nearly a year waiting for a home.
He was dubbed a “hero” after donating blood to save a fellow kennel mate, Sox the lurcher, who needed a transfusion after having his leg amputated.
Brittanny Baker, animal care assistant at the centre, said: "He’s been with us for 11 months now, but he is constantly overlooked by potential adopters, which breaks my heart.
"He’s a big lad weighing in at over 40kg (88lb), and I worry that this is putting people off.
"This is something we’re seeing at our centres across England and Wales, as adopters favour smaller breeds due to concerns over the cost of caring for a bigger dog.
"Sweeny may be a big boy, but he’s certainly got a big heart.
"He’s goofy, playful, and loveable.
"He learns fast and enjoys training as well as quiet walks out, and playing in the off-lead paddock."
On average, it takes 41 days for a dog to be rehomed.
However, larger dogs like Sweeny can wait seven times longer than smaller breeds.
The RSPCA hopes the new law will lead to more homes being available for dogs of all sizes.
The legislation is also expected to ease the strain on RSPCA centres.
By removing barriers for renters, it could reduce the number of people forced to give up their pets due to housing restrictions.
The RSPCA has been working with the UK government to raise awareness of what the Renters Rights Act could mean for pet ownership and animal welfare.
They have also produced a ‘good practice guide’ for the housing sector, available on their website.
More details about the RSPCA's campaigning work can be found on the charity’s website.
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