Campaign launched to reverse 'bonkers' pet insurance decision

Pet campaign group AdvoCATS has urged landlords to get behind its social media campaign and encourage the government to reverse its decision on pet insurance.

After its amendment withdrew landlords’ ability to require pet damage insurance under the Renters’ Rights Bill, the group explains that it’s chosen to “fight a bonkers decision with a largely comedic response”.

Using whacky memes of animals with headlines such as ‘They’re barking mad’ and sad puppies imploring ‘Don’t make us beg’, it wants followers to post a message of support on their socials, tagging MCHLG, Housing Secretary Angela Rayner, Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook and their local MP.

The U-turn means landlords will need to foot the bill for damage caused by pets while landlords will still be expected to accept tenants with pets, unless there is a good reason not to.

Founder Jen Berezai has labelled the move as a betrayal of tenants, landlords and most of all, pets.

U-turns

“Many will say that as a government amendment, this one’s certain to stay the course, but we can always hope for a U-turn on a U-turn...plus I’m a fat lady, and I’m not singing yet!” says Berezai, who believes the approach will appeal to a wide audience and encourage maximum reposting.

The group’s Heads for Tails! campaign – launched in September 2021 - was supported by more than 80 MPs, peers and corporate organisations.

Its handle on Facebook, X and Instagram is @advocatsem and Berezai will also be using #DitchtheRRBamend as well as #HeadsForTails. It has also produced a letter template that people can use to write to their MP.