Using Freeads | Posting rules for pets

General pet advertising rules

Anyone advertising pets in the UK must follow animal welfare laws, licensing regulations, and responsible rehoming standards.

• Pets must be legal to own & rehome in the UK
• Pets must not be advertised as FREE to a good home
• Each advert must use original photos of the actual pet
• Every advert must have a clear, accurate title
• Pets must be fully weaned & ready to leave
• Pets must not be advertised for rehoming if pregnant or feeding young
• Any licence required must be declared in the advert
• Banned breeds & prohibited species cannot be advertised

Puppy and kitten advertising rules

Strict rules apply to puppies & kittens to protect welfare & prevent illegal sales.

• Must be at least 8 weeks old before rehoming
• Must be microchipped before leaving
  

Pets under 6 months can only be advertised by:

• The breeder
• A licensed rescue or rehoming centre

Puppies and kittens must:

• Be seen with their mother
• Include a photo of the litter with the mother

Breeder requirements:

• 3 or more litters in 12 months requires a licence
• Licence number must be shown in the advert

Mother requirements:

• Must be over 12 months old
• Maximum one litter per year
• Maximum six litters in a lifetime

Additional rules:

• Ear cropping is not permitted
• Docked dogs must have a valid vet certificate

Equestrian advertising rules

Horses, ponies, & donkeys must meet identification & registration requirements.

• Must be microchipped
• Must be registered on the Central Equine Database
• Must have a valid equine passport
• All adverts should include photos of front, side & back of horse or pony.

Welfare rules

All adverts must support the five welfare needs under the Animal Welfare Act.

• Suitable environment
• Suitable diet
• Ability to exhibit normal behaviour
• Appropriate housing with or away from others
• Protection from pain, suffering, injury, & disease

Adverts should clearly describe how these needs are being met.