You must be 16 or over to own a animal
However a adult can purchase one for someone under the age of 16 as long as they remain legally responsible for it.

Now time for the MOST important things you must uphold and do when looking after a animal
You must uphold the five animal needs which are;
1. The need for a suitable environment
2. The need for a suitable diet which includes fresh water at all times
3. The need to be able to exhibit normal behaviour patterns
4. The need to be housed with, or apart from animals of the same species or other
5. The need to be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease.

Anyone cruel to animals may be or can be banned from owning animals for life, fined up to £20,000.00 depending on the animals situation and its species or be sent to prison.