A Primary Authority is a formal relationship between a business (or group of businesses) and a single local authority, designed to make regulation simpler and more consistent.

In our case, Monmouthshire County Council acts as our Primary Authority, providing the Animal Focused Alliance with assured, legally recognised advice on how to meet relevant laws and regulations—especially those relating to the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Wales) Regulations and the Animal Boarding Establishments Act.

That advice can then be shared with our members, and local authorities across Wales must respect it when inspecting or licensing your business.

Our Primary Authority Partnership: Supporting Pet Businesses Across Wales

How This Helps Pet Professionals

If you run or plan to run a pet business in Wales - such as:

  • Animal boarding (dog daycare, kennels, cattery or home boarding)

  • Dog breeding

  • Animal encounters or exhibits

  • Selling pets

you may have experienced how interpretation of the regulations can vary between councils. Our Primary Authority partnership helps to reduce this uncertainty.

As a member of the Animal Focused Alliance, you’ll benefit from:

  • Clarity and consistency: You’ll receive advice that is nationally recognised and backed by law.

  • Peace of mind: Following our guidance means you’re far less likely to be caught out by differing interpretations of licensing rules.

  • Better preparation for inspections: You’ll understand exactly what’s expected of you, saving time and reducing stress.

  • Support during regulatory change: As new areas of regulation (like pet grooming and animal sanctuaries) are explored by Welsh Government, we’ll help ensure your voice is heard and the guidance remains practical and welfare-focused.

The Welsh Government recently confirmed it would begin exploring regulation for both pet groomers and animal sanctuaries—two important sectors that have previously operated without licensing.

Our Primary Authority partnership puts us in a strong position to:

  • Work with regulators to shape practical, animal welfare-focused guidance

  • Provide up-to-date, assured information to our members as new rules are introduced

  • Ensure that pet professionals are supported, not left behind, as regulation evolves.