New website
We're currently redeveloping our website so you may see a mix of old and new style pages while we complete this work. We'd love to hear your feedback on the new style.
Livestock care on your allotment
How to look after animals on your allotment
Make sure to read the allotment rules, especially:
- Section 12 & Appendix 4 – Keeping livestock
- Section 9 & Appendix 3 – Building structures
Legal responsibilities
Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, you must make sure your animals:
- have a safe and suitable place to live
- eat the right food
- can behave naturally
- are protected from pain, injury, and illness
- are kept with or apart from other animals as needed
Failure to comply with the act may result in prosecution.
Your responsibilities
- You are responsible for your animals, even in emergencies like fire or flooding.
- You must report serious or contagious health issues to the council and let them know when the issue is resolved.
- If the council needs to call a vet due to neglect, you’ll be charged for it.
- You keep up to date with any changes made to the Animal welfare Act 2006
General animal care
All animals (except bees) need:
- clean drinking water at all times
- enough food for good health
- daylight
- shelter and protection from pests and predators
- clean, dry bedding
- space to move, feed, and behave naturally
- safe and secure housing
- daily checks by someone experienced
- vet care when needed
- companionship with their own kind
- fencing to prevent escape or injury
- gentle handling and transport
