France lockdown: Are catteries and kennels still open?

Reader question: I am thinking about returning to the UK during the lockdown and am looking for a place to keep my cat. Are catteries/kennels open in France?

No, with some exceptions.

The Syndicat National des Professions du Chien et du Chat has stated that catteries and kennels in France have been placed on administrative closure (fermeture administrative) as they are deemed non-essential and places that receive members of the public.

There are some exceptions, explained Emma Robertson, who owns Acorn Kennels and Cattery in Normandy.

“We are allowed to board dogs and cats belonging to key workers (healthcare workers) or for people who have been hospitalised. I actually have a couple of dogs belonging to a chap who was operated on at the end of last week,” she said.

The Connexion spoke to Ms Robertson in October about the fact that catteries and kennels were not eligible for the government’s coronavirus grant.

The list of businesses eligible for this grant has now been updated to include catteries and kennels.

Read more:

French union demands aid for pet care businesses

Which shops can stay open during lockdown in France?

France lockdown: The exemption forms you need