Dogs are known as man’s best friend for good reason and living with a four-legged friend can be extremely rewarding. However, for pet owners unware of these laws, it could also end up costing them a packet.
According to animal charity, PDSA, 28 percent of UK adults have a dog - that’s an estimated population of 10.6 million pet dogs. The PAW PDSA Animal Wellbeing report 2024 revealed the dog population has been growing steadily since 2011 when it was 8.2 million dogs.
While these tail-waggers offer a great source of companionship, owning a pet does of course come with a lot of responsibilities too. While keeping an animal well fed, healthy and loved are the first things people might consider when caring for a pet, there’s a lot more besides.
9. Dog walking rules
Some public areas in England and Wales are covered by Public Spaces Protection Orders. In public areas with PSPOs, you may have to keep your dog on a lead, stop your dog going to certain places, like farmland or parts of a park, limit the number of dogs you have with you, clear up after your dog, and carry a poop scoop and disposable bags. Ignoring these rules can incur a £100 on-the-spot fine, rising up to £1,000 if the case goes to court. | alexei_tm - stock.adobe.com
10. Dog breeders need a licence
Under the Animal Welfare Act 1999, breeders in England and Scotland who breed five or more litters per year must have a licence, while in Wales and Northern Ireland, breeding three or more litters within a 12 month period requires a licence. Failure to do so can result in an unlimited fine and/or imprisonment for up to six months. | Oligo - stock.adobe.com