Last summer, the UK Parliament introduced a new law that affects all pet owners – and even those planning on getting a new feline or canine. From June 10, 2024, it became illegal to have a dog or cat that hasn’t been microchipped, including house cats.
The RSPCA charity affirmed: “It’s now a legal requirement to have any dog over the age of eight weeks microchipped in England and Wales.” Failing to do so can lead to a £500 fine, but that’s not the only type of fine pet owners are at risk of. Robbie Bryant, Head of Education and Development at Open Study College – an online course provider that offers courses in animal care – revealed other less-known risks.
In terms of identification, “failure to include your name and address on your dog’s tag is illegal under the Animal Health Act 1981”.
Shockingly, Robbie said this could result in a “£5,000 fine or a six-month prison sentence”.
He added: “It’s important to remember to change the address on your dog’s tag once you move home.”
When it comes to taking your dog with you on a family outing, simply holding the dog could cause problems.
Robbie said: “Dogs need to be suitably restrained in a vehicle through the use of a harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard.”
While holding onto the dog for a short car journey may not seem like much harm, if the police catch you, a £5,000 fine could be given on the spot.
Although it is a less expensive charge, dog owners could be fined £100 if they don’t pick up after their dog’s mess.
“In certain areas of the UK, fines can be imposed if you aren’t carrying poo bags,” Robbie added.
“In Lincolnshire, you can expect a fine of £100 if you don’t have poo bags available.”
Robbie elaborated: “In North Somerset, dog owners could even face a £75 fine for not having one, even if they just used [a poo bag].”
And no matter how well-trained your dog is, “it’s an offence to have a dog off-lead on a designated road”.
This is because of The Road Traffic Act (1988), which prohibits such a risky endeavour.
