Report animal cruelty

Where to report animal cruelty

If you suspect animal cruelty, you should report it to: 

• us, if it takes place in a business that has an animal welfare licence
• the Royal Society for the Protection of Animals (RSPCA) if it takes place anywhere else, such as a home or public place
• British Horse Society if it’s cruelty to horses

Report your concerns

Report animal cruelty at a licensed business to us. Email licensing@royalgreenwich.gov.uk or call 0208 921 8018.

About animal cruelty

Animal cruelty includes: 

• physical violence
• deliberate mental distress
• neglect, such as not feeding an animal 

All owners and keepers of animals have a duty of care under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. 

They must provide for 5 welfare needs: 

• suitable environment
• suitable diet
• to be able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns
• to be housed with, or apart from, other animals
• to be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease 

Read legislation and guidance on animal welfare (GOV.UK) 

When a business needs an animal welfare licence 

A business needs an animal welfare licence to: 

• sell animals as pets
• provide or arrange boarding for cats or dogs
• hire out horses
• breed dogs
• keep or train animals for exhibition 

We regularly inspect licensed premises to maintain adequate standards of animal care.

You can report a business to us if you believe they do not have an animal welfare licence but should have one.