Battersea, the charity behind the Pet Friendly Properties campaign, says the Renters Reform Bill must become law as soon as possible.

Battersea claims there is a stark imbalance between millions of animal-loving renters and the availability of suitable housing. The data showed 76 per cent of renters either currently own or would like to own an animal companion yet according to property website Zoopla, a mere eight per cent of landlords currently list their properties as ‘pets allowed’.

Michael Webb, Battersea’s Head of Policy and Public Affairs, says: “At Battersea and other rescues across the country, far too often we see heartbroken owners bringing in their pets when they are unable to find a home where they can live together as a family. 

“No one should be forced to choose between giving up their companion or facing the prospect of having nowhere to live, and we sincerely hope that the Renters Reform Bill will help see fewer pets being parted from their loving owners, and more tenants benefiting from the joys of pet ownership in the future.”

Ahead of the Bill’s Second Reading on Monday, Battersea urged its supporters to email their MP, asking them to speak up in support of the Bill in Parliament. 

Thousands of people have also shown their support for the Pet Friendly Properties campaign by signing a pledge.