Compare Regulations
Side-by-side comparison of England vs Scotland boarding regulations
England vs Scotland
Sleeping Area — Higher Licence Condition
Under the Higher licence condition, the sleeping area must be at least 2.85m². This applies to all kennels, not just new builds. The dog must also be able to sit and stand at full height, lie down fully stretched out, wag its tail, walk, and turn around without touching another dog or the walls.
Minimum Kennel Size (Dogs)
The kennel must be large enough for the dog to stand at full height, turn around, wag its tail, stretch and lie down in a natural position. The recommended minimum sleeping area is based on shoulder height: twice the dog's length (nose to tail base) and 1.5 times its height. An attached individual run is required.
Sleeping Area — Standard Licence Condition
The sleeping area must provide the dog with sufficient space, without touching another dog or the walls, to: sit and stand at full height; lie down fully stretched out; wag its tail; walk; and turn around. The floor area must be at least twice the area required for the dog to lie flat. For kennels built after the Regulations came into force, the sleeping area must be at least 1.9m². No dimensions are specified for exercise areas, save that if the exercise area is not attached, dogs must be taken out at least 4 times a day.
No equivalent Scotland regulation
Cat Unit Minimum Size — Standard Condition
Full-height walk-in units: sleeping area minimum 0.85m² (min dimension 0.9m) for 1 cat; 1.5m² for up to 2 cats; 1.85m² for up to 3 cats; 2.5m² for up to 4 cats. Minimum height 1.8m for all units. The unit must include a separate sleeping area and a run area; the total unit size includes both. Units must be large enough for the cat to stand, stretch, move freely and display normal behaviour. All units must have a shelf or raised area.
Cat Unit Minimum Size
Each cat unit must provide a minimum floor area of 1.2m². The sleeping area must be at least 0.85m². The unit height must be sufficient for staff to enter and clean safely, and for the cat to move freely. Each unit should have an outdoor exercise area or secure window access.
Dog Exercise Area Requirements
Each dog must have access to an individual exercise run directly attached to the sleeping area. The run must be at least 2.4m long. Dogs must be exercised at least twice daily. A separate, secure communal exercise area should be available for supervised exercise.
Dog Exercise Area Requirements
Each kennel must have an attached individual run for the dog. Dogs must receive adequate daily exercise appropriate to their breed and size. A separate exercise area for supervised off-lead exercise is recommended. Runs should have drainage and be easy to clean.
Temperature Control Requirements
Sleeping areas must be maintained at a comfortable temperature, typically between 10°C and 26°C. Heating must be provided and controllable. Thermometers must be available in all kennel/cattery areas. Dogs and cats must be protected from draughts and extremes of temperature.
Temperature Control Requirements
The premises must be maintained at a temperature comfortable for the animals. Adequate heating must be available and used when necessary. Animals must be protected from draughts, damp, and extremes of temperature. Insulation should be adequate for the climate.
Ventilation Standards
All areas must have adequate ventilation to prevent build-up of odour, dampness and draughts. Fresh air must circulate freely. Mechanical ventilation systems must be maintained and checked regularly. Windows or vents must allow natural airflow where possible.
Ventilation Standards
Adequate ventilation must be provided without creating draughts. Air must be able to circulate freely throughout all accommodation areas. The premises must be free from excessive humidity and condensation.
Lighting Requirements
Animals must have access to natural daylight during the day. Artificial lighting must be provided for inspection and emergency purposes. Lighting should follow a natural day-night cycle to prevent stress. Light levels must be sufficient for daily inspection of animals.
Lighting Requirements
Adequate lighting must be provided in all accommodation and service areas. Natural light should be available where possible. Artificial lighting must be available for inspection purposes and emergencies.
Staff-to-Animal Ratios
There must be a sufficient number of staff to provide adequate care for all animals at all times. At least one member of staff must be present on site at all times when animals are being boarded. Staff must be trained in animal welfare, first aid, and emergency procedures.
Staff-to-Animal Ratios
Sufficient staff must be available to properly care for all boarded animals. Staff must be experienced or trained in animal care. A responsible person must be available at all times to deal with emergencies.
Record Keeping Requirements
A register must be maintained for every animal boarded including: owner details, emergency contact, veterinary details, vaccination records, feeding requirements, medication needs, arrival/departure dates. Records must be kept for minimum 3 years.
Record Keeping Requirements
A register must be kept of all animals boarded including owner details, veterinary information, vaccination records, dietary requirements and any health conditions. Records must be available for inspection by the local authority at any time.
Veterinary Care Provisions
A veterinary surgery must be within reasonable distance. The establishment must have a written arrangement with a local veterinary practice. Animals must be checked daily for signs of illness. First aid equipment must be readily available.
Veterinary Care Provisions
Adequate arrangements must be in place for veterinary care when needed. Animals must be observed regularly for signs of illness or distress. Sick or injured animals must receive prompt veterinary attention. A first aid kit suitable for animals must be available.
Food and Water Standards
Fresh clean drinking water must be available at all times. Animals must be fed a suitable diet at appropriate intervals. The owner's feeding instructions should be followed. Food preparation areas must be hygienic and separate from accommodation. Food bowls must be cleaned after every use.
Food and Water Standards
Clean fresh drinking water must be available at all times. A suitable, nutritious diet must be provided. Owner feeding instructions should be followed where possible. Food storage must be in a clean, vermin-proof area. Feeding bowls and water containers must be cleaned regularly.
Hygiene and Cleaning Standards
All areas must be cleaned daily and disinfected regularly using animal-safe products. Bedding must be clean and changed regularly. Waste must be removed promptly and disposed of appropriately. A cleaning protocol must be documented and followed.
Hygiene and Cleaning Standards
All units must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between occupants. Daily cleaning of all areas is required. Animal-safe disinfectants must be used. Waste must be disposed of in a hygienic manner. Surfaces must be impervious and easy to clean.
Fire Safety Requirements
A fire risk assessment must be carried out and documented. Smoke detectors and fire extinguishers must be installed and maintained. An emergency evacuation plan for all animals must be in place. Fire exits must be clearly marked and unobstructed. Staff must be trained in fire safety procedures.
Fire Safety Requirements
Adequate fire precautions must be in place including fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. An evacuation procedure for animals must exist. Electrical installations must be safe and regularly inspected. Heating equipment must be safe and properly guarded.
Licensing Requirements
All boarding establishments must be licensed by the local authority. Licences are granted for 1, 2, or 3 years based on a star rating system (1-5 stars). Inspections are carried out before licensing and during the licence period. Higher star ratings allow longer licence periods. The licence holder must be present during inspections.
Licensing Requirements
All boarding establishments must be licensed by the local authority under the Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963. Licences are renewed annually. The local authority may inspect the premises at any time. Conditions may be attached to the licence by the local authority.
Isolation Facility Requirements
A separate isolation facility must be available for sick or potentially infectious animals. The isolation area must be completely separate from the main boarding area with separate drainage and ventilation. Isolation units must meet the same size requirements as standard accommodation.
Isolation Facility Requirements
Isolation facilities must be available for animals showing signs of disease or illness. The isolation area should be separate from the main boarding area. Sick animals must be monitored more frequently. A vet must be consulted when animals are placed in isolation.
Dog Sleeping Area Construction
Sleeping areas must be insulated, waterproof, and draught-free. Floors must be solid, impervious, and slip-resistant. A raised sleeping platform or bed must be provided. Suitable clean bedding must always be available. The area must be secure and escape-proof.
Dog Sleeping Area Construction
Sleeping quarters must be weatherproof, well-insulated and draught-free. The floor must be solid and impervious to moisture. Adequate clean, dry bedding must be provided. The area must be safe, secure, and comfortable for the dog.
Cat Sleeping Area Construction
Each cat must have an enclosed, draught-free sleeping area within its unit. The sleeping area must be at least 0.85m². A comfortable bed and clean bedding must be provided. Cats must have a hiding area or covered bed for security. Units must include a raised shelf for resting.
Cat Sleeping Area Construction
Each cat must have an enclosed sleeping area with comfortable bedding. The sleeping area should protect from draughts and be warm and dry. Suitable resting areas at different heights are recommended. The area must be easy to clean and disinfect.
General Welfare Duty
All boarded animals must be provided with the five welfare needs: a suitable environment, a suitable diet, the ability to exhibit normal behaviour, housing with or apart from other animals as needed, and protection from pain, suffering, injury and disease. The licence holder is responsible for ensuring these needs are met.
General Welfare Duty
All boarded animals must have their welfare needs met under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006. The five welfare needs must be provided: suitable environment, suitable diet, ability to exhibit normal behaviour, appropriate companionship, and protection from pain and suffering.
UK-Wide Standards (RSPCA / Greyhound Trust)
Kennel Run — Attached Exercise Run Size
Each individual Military Working Dog kennel unit must have an attached exercise run of minimum 2.5m × 3m (7.5m²). This is in addition to the wider exercise paddock and training course requirements. The run must have washdown drainage and meet biosecurity standards.
⚠️ This is the per-dog attached run, separate from the 74m² exercise paddock. Combined these far exceed any civilian boarding standard.
Cat Unit Minimum Size — RSPCA Standard
Each cat must be housed in a pen/unit that provides a minimum total floor area of 1.8m² (including sleeping and activity areas). The unit must be large enough for the cat to stand fully upright, stretch out fully, turn around, and perform normal feline behaviours. The sleeping area must be separate from the activity/run area. Units must include raised platforms or shelves at different heights. Cats must not be able to make physical contact with cats in adjacent units. Solid or double-mesh partitions must be used to prevent transmission of disease between units.
⚠️ RSPCA 1.8m² total per cat exceeds England Government’s 0.85m² sleeping-only minimum for 1 cat. RSPCA also mandates solid or double-mesh partition walls to prevent disease transmission — not required under government standard conditions.
Cat Unit Construction & Partitions
All cat units must be constructed of durable, smooth, impervious and easily cleaned materials. Flooring must be non-slip and sealed against urine absorption. Partition walls between units must prevent physical contact between cats and must use solid panels or double-mesh construction to reduce disease transmission risk. Units must be draught-free and provide protection from extremes of temperature. All surfaces including walls, floors, ceilings, shelves and fixtures must be capable of thorough cleaning and disinfection. Wood must not be used as a primary construction material in new builds.
⚠️ RSPCA mandates solid or double-mesh partitions to prevent disease transmission between cats — this goes beyond the government standard which requires only that cats are housed separately. Government guidance does not prohibit wood construction.
Cat Exercise & Enrichment Requirements
All cats must have access to an activity area within their unit that allows free movement, jumping, scratching and play. The activity area must be separate from the sleeping area. Climbing structures, scratch posts and hiding areas must be provided within each unit. Cats must not be confined to their sleeping area only. Environmental enrichment must be rotated regularly to maintain behavioural stimulation. If cats from the same household are compatible, they may be housed together with proportionally increased space.
⚠️ RSPCA specifically mandates enrichment items (climbing structures, scratch posts, hiding areas) within each unit. Government standard conditions require only that cats can move freely and display normal behaviour, with no specific enrichment requirements.
Cat Unit Temperature & Ventilation
Cat units must be maintained at a temperature between 10°C and 26°C at all times. Heating must be provided if ambient temperature drops below 10°C. Ventilation must provide fresh air circulation without creating draughts directly onto the cat. Units must be insulated against extremes of temperature. Cats must always have access to a warm sleeping area regardless of ambient conditions. Air quality must be maintained to prevent build-up of ammonia, odours and pathogens.
⚠️ RSPCA and Government 2018 Regulations share the same 10°C–26°C temperature range for cats. RSPCA adds specific requirements for air quality and prohibition of draughts directly onto the cat.
Cat Isolation & Disease Prevention
Dedicated isolation facilities must be available for cats showing signs of illness or disease. Isolation units must be physically separate from the main cattery with a separate air supply and drainage system. Sick cats must be moved to isolation immediately. All cats admitted must have current vaccination records verified for Feline Herpesvirus, Feline Calicivirus and Feline Panleukopaenia (FVRCP). Cats not up to date with vaccinations must not be admitted. A named veterinary surgeon must be available for consultation and emergency treatment.
⚠️ RSPCA requires vaccination verification on admission and dedicated isolation with separate air supply. Government standard conditions require isolation facilities but do not mandate separate HVAC or proof of vaccination as an admission requirement.
Minimum Kennel Size — Small Dogs (under 20kg)
The minimum kennel size must be at least 4m² for dogs under 20kg. This applies to new builds and current constructions. The kennel must allow the dog to walk, turn, wag its tail without touching walls, stand on hind limbs, and lie fully stretched. Separate sleeping and activity areas must be provided.
⚠️ RSPCA 4m² standard (2018) is more than double England Government's 1.9m² sleeping minimum for the same dog weight class.
Minimum Kennel Size — Large Dogs (over 20kg)
The minimum kennel size must be at least 8m² for dogs over 20kg. Size must be increased relative to the number and size of dogs, so both length and width are sufficient for each dog to lie outstretched at all angles with neither tail nor snout touching the walls or another individual.
⚠️ RSPCA 8m² (2018) is over 2.5x England Government's 3m² sleeping minimum for large dogs, and significantly exceeds Scotland's formula-based approach.
Exercise Area — Minimum Outdoor Access
All adult dogs must have daily access to outdoor safe and secure areas away from the kennel area for at least 30 minutes per day, whether lead exercise or in an exercise run, unless a vet advises otherwise. This is in addition to toileting opportunities. Outdoor areas cannot have strict temperature regulation; dogs must not be restricted when climatic conditions cause distress. Fresh water, shade and shelter must be available at all times.
⚠️ RSPCA specifies 30-minute minimum daily outdoor access — England Government does not prescribe a minimum outdoor exercise duration, only twice-daily exercise.
Minimum Individual Kennel Run Size
Military Working Dog (MWD) kennels under VSTAT/JSP standards require individual kennel runs of minimum 2.5m × 1.2m (3m²) sleeping area with an attached exercise run of minimum 2.5m × 3m (7.5m²). Total individual unit minimum is approximately 10.5m². Kennel construction must meet biosecurity, washdown drainage, and secure perimeter standards. Isolation units must have separate HVAC systems.
⚠️ VSTAT total unit (~10.5m²) significantly exceeds both England Government (6m² for large dogs) and RSPCA (8m² for large dogs), reflecting high-security and biosecurity requirements for military working dogs.
Exercise and Training Area Requirements
Military Working Dog facilities require a secure, purpose-built exercise and training area. An obedience/training course of minimum 45m × 23m (approximately 1,045m²) and a dedicated MWD exercise paddock of minimum 74m² (800 sq ft) are required per JSP/VSTAT framework. Perimeter fencing must meet secure compound standards. Exercise areas must be separate from kennel runs and accessible daily.
⚠️ VSTAT exercise area requirements (74m²+ paddock, 1,045m² training course) vastly exceed civilian boarding standards — designed for operational readiness, not just welfare.
Kennel Construction Standards
All kennels must be of substantial construction and provide protection from drafts, wet, cold and hot weather. Concrete or building blocks must be sealed smooth and impervious. Wood must not be used for new builds. All internal surfaces (walls, floors, partitions, doors, doorframes) must be durable, smooth, impervious and easily cleaned. Flooring must be non-slip and urine-resistant, laid to avoid pooling of liquids. Slatted or wire mesh floors must not be used.
⚠️ RSPCA bans wood in new builds and wire/slatted floors — stricter construction rules than government minimum standards.
Escape Prevention & Safety
All kennels must be secure to prevent escape — doors must be close fitting and able to be secured effectively. Kennels must be free from hazards with no projections or rough edges that could cause injury. Partition wall mesh must be of a diameter that prevents access to neighbouring dogs and protects noses, paws and claws. Double-skinning of mesh panels should be considered. Dogs that pose a risk must be housed with solid partition walls.
⚠️ RSPCA's double-skinning mesh recommendation and solid partition requirements go beyond government baseline standards.
Sleeping & Resting Area Design
Every dog must have continual access to a comfortable, dry, draught-free, clean and quiet place to rest. Every dog must have somewhere to go to avoid things that frighten them — this could be the sleeping area or under a sleeping platform. Platforms must be hinged on one side to allow safe staff access. Bedding of suitable material (e.g. shredded paper or fleece) must always be provided. If a dog destroys bedding, advice must be sought from a qualified behaviourist.
⚠️ RSPCA uniquely mandates hinged sleeping platforms for safe access and requires a behavioural response plan when bedding is destroyed.
Temperature Control
Kennels must be insulated to avoid extremes of temperature. At all times there must be some part of the kennel where the dog can experience temperatures above 10°C (50°F) and below 26°C (79°F). If necessary, heating and/or automatic cooling/ventilation must be provided to achieve this. Kennels must be draught-free.
⚠️ RSPCA matches England's government 10–26°C range and goes further by requiring automatic cooling systems if needed, not just heating.
Ventilation & Air Quality
Ventilation in dogs' indoor accommodation must provide sufficient fresh air of appropriate quality. It must keep down levels and spread of odours, noxious gases, dust and infectious agents, and provide for removal of excess heat and humidity. Ventilation must not create draughts in the dogs' resting areas.
⚠️ RSPCA specifies air quality requirements including control of infectious agents — more detailed than government ventilation standards.
Noise Reduction Requirements
High levels of noise can be stressful to dogs and must be actively avoided. Measures to mitigate noise must be explored and where possible implemented — for example, changing metal buckets and bowls to plastic can significantly reduce noise levels. The establishment must consider noise from other dogs and from the environment.
⚠️ RSPCA is unique in specifically mandating noise reduction measures — not covered by government boarding regulations at all.
Daily Outdoor Exercise Requirement
All adult dogs and puppies over six weeks of age must have daily access to outdoor safe and secure areas, away from the kennel area. This must be for at least 30 minutes per day, whether lead exercise and/or in an exercise run, unless a vet advises otherwise. This is in addition to toileting opportunities. Outdoor areas must have shade, shelter from rain/wind/snow/ice/sunlight, and constant access to fresh water. Dogs must not be restricted to outdoor areas in conditions that may cause distress.
⚠️ RSPCA specifies a minimum of 30 minutes daily outdoor exercise. England's government standard says twice daily but doesn't specify a duration. Scotland does not specify a time.
Crating Restrictions
Crating must not be used to house dogs permanently. Crating is only permitted for habituation, post-injury recovery or transportation. When a crate is used, it must be large enough to allow the dog to stand, turn around normally, sit erect and lie down. Dogs must not be left in a crate for generally more than four hours at a time. Dogs must be taken out regularly to toilet.
⚠️ RSPCA explicitly bans crating as permanent housing and sets a 4-hour maximum crating limit — not addressed in government boarding regulations.
Food & Water Standards
All dogs must have continuous access to fresh, clean drinking water (except during transport). Dogs must receive a palatable diet that fulfils nutritional requirements matched to their age, breed, health, reproductive status, body condition and activity level. A vet should assist in devising appropriate diets. Adult dogs must be fed at least once a day unless advised otherwise by a vet.
⚠️ RSPCA requires vet involvement in designing feeding regimes — a higher standard than government requirements.
Staffing & Staff Conduct
When caring for and working with dogs, staff must give undivided attention — mobile phones must be switched off except during breaks and lunch. The licence holder and employees must not have any previous convictions under relevant animal welfare legislation. The establishment must be licensed under the Animal Boarding Establishments Act 1963 (where applicable). The seizing body reserves the right to carry out unannounced inspections.
⚠️ RSPCA uniquely mandates that staff switch off mobile phones while working with dogs — not in any government standard.
Behaviour & Enrichment — Repetitive Behaviour Management
Where dogs exhibit repetitive behaviours (e.g. bouncing or spinning), management plans must be implemented. This includes seeking advice from a suitably qualified behavioural expert and veterinarian who can carry out an assessment. Where appropriate and possible, changes must be made to the dog's environment. Dogs must have somewhere to hide/retreat to avoid frightening stimuli.
⚠️ RSPCA mandates active behavioural management plans — well beyond government requirements which do not address stereotypic behaviours.
Fire & Emergency Safety
Adequate contingency steps must be in place for the protection and/or evacuation of dogs in case of fire or other emergencies. The licensee's name, address and telephone number must be permanently displayed on the premises and logged with police and fire services. Fire prevention advice must be sought from the local Fire Prevention Officer and then implemented.
⚠️ RSPCA requires contact details to be registered with both police and fire services — stricter than England's government standard.
