11/08/2026
Have a read pet owners and doggy day care and boarding providers..... The Pet Services Directory are raising animal welfare standards.
⚠️Licensed Doesn’t Mean Safe: A Case Every Pet Parent Needs to See⚠️
…. and a Recent Case That Shows Why These Checks Matter
Most of us choose day care or boarding because we love our pets and want them safe, happy and cared for while we’re away and many licensed providers do an incredible job — following the rules, prioritising welfare, and treating every dog as if they were their own.
They deserve recognition and trust.
… it’s also important to remember:
A licence is a safeguard — not a guarantee.
It confirms a provider met standards at inspection, but it doesn’t automatically mean those standards are followed every single day.
This is why we encourage pet parents to:
• Visit the premises
• Arrange a meet & greet
• Visit more than once if needed
• Ask questions about routines, welfare, insurance, staffing and emergency planning
• Trust their instincts
When you’re not choosing a service — you’re choosing someone to care for your family member.
A Recent Case That Shows Why These Checks Matter
Amber Valley Borough Council recently revoked the licence of a dog day care and boarding provider after identifying breaches of the Animal Welfare Regulations.
🐾🐾Barn Farm Dog Day Care – Licence REVOKED
Location: Wood Lane, Horsley Woodhouse
Type: Day Care & Boarding
Effective: 17 July 2026
Reason: Breaches of licence conditions and the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018
Status: Immediate revocation; 28‑day right of appeal
The council has reminded pet parents to always verify that their chosen provider holds a valid licence — and to remain vigilant even when a licence is in place.
📣 Message to Pet Parents & Licensed Providers📣
To every pet parent:
Your caution is not overprotective !!!
It’s being responsible. Your pets rely on you to choose wisely, and your instincts matter.
To every licensed provider who follows the rules and puts welfare first:
You are valued. You are needed. And your commitment to doing things properly makes a real difference.
🐾The Heart of the Message🐾
Licensed care can still fall short.
….and excellent licensed providers deserve recognition.
Choosing wisely, with visits, questions, and instinct……is the best safeguard your pet has.
