The RSPCA has welcomed a new law which could keep pets together with their owners in Wiltshire.

The legislation, published on September 11, aims to support renters by preventing landlords from imposing blanket bans on pets without justifiable reasons.

Such bans have previously forced prospective pet owners to reconsider their decisions or face giving up their animals.

The previous government published model tenancy agreements encouraging pet ownership in rental properties, but they were not legally binding.

However, the new legislation focuses on reforming the rental sector, granting tenants the legal right to request pet ownership.

The RSPCA, which has long advocated for this change, believes it will significantly impact the lives of many potential and existing pet owners.

Harriet Main, RSPCA public affairs manager, said: "This is a potentially exciting day for many prospective pet owners in England, who have been unfairly denied the chance to own a pet purely because of living in rental accommodation.

"We also know many existing pet owners have also faced the heart breaking prospect of having to rehome their animals to access certain accommodation - and hopefully that will soon be a thing of the past.

"Pets should absolutely be allowed to live with their owners in suitable, rented accommodation - unless there is a justifiable reason not to do so."

The RSPCA hopes the new law will not only keep pets and their owners united but also open the door to pet ownership for millions living in the private rented sector.

Ms Main added: "We've campaigned for this change for many years - and look forward to working with the UK Government and MPs to ensure it now becomes a reality."

Ms Main said "many" of the charity's animal centres are "full to bursting with pets looking for a second chance of happiness", as they struggle with the cost of living crisis.

As a result, the RSPCA is pleased the law will allow many more renters to provide a home for rescued pets.

The legislation will also permit landlords to require tenants to have pet insurance to cover potential property damage, a suggestion previously put forward by the charity.

Ms Main said: "Pet ownership is really rewarding - so having an animal will undoubtedly help facilitate happier, healthier tenants right across the country.

"Landlords requiring animal-owning tenants to have pet insurance will help provide security and encourage responsible ownership."