Stafford Borough Council has released a statement about the changes to pet primate rules made by the Government.  

From 6 April residents must have a license from their local council to keep a primate as a pet.  

Primates are animals such as monkeys and lemurs, and the RSPCA estimate that around there are around 5,000 primates in the UK living in domestic settings.  

Vets across the area have been contacted by the local authorities so they can inform pet owners of the changes.  

Stafford Borough Council said: "The new regulations are aimed at ensuring residents provide the highest welfare standards if keeping primates.  

"Not holding a licence will be an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and could lead to a prison term.   

"An inspection of the premises will be carried out by a vet and qualified officer before a licence can be granted - and this would be valid for three years.   

"The council is encouraging people to apply now if they do have a pet primate before the regulations come into force in a few weeks' time.  

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"The list of pets includes marmosets, lemurs, squirrel monkeys, spider monkeys and capuchin monkeys." 

Anyone with concerns about a primate being kept in the borough should email: [email protected].    

For more information, click the link.