Seven places dogs are banned
Dog lovers have been warned to stay away from seven UK locations where they could be fined for visiting with their four-legged friends this summer.
Pet experts at Years.com have urged dog owners to keep away from the locations or risk a hefty fine for breaking the rules.
On hot summer days, it can be tempting to take dogs for a stroll on the nearest beach but unfortunately, pooches are not welcome on many UK beaches. Many UK local authorities deter dog walking on beaches by imposing hefty fines on hapless dog owners who get caught out.
Other locations where dog walkers risk fines include cemeteries, fast food chains and supermarkets.
Darren Beale, founder of Years.com said: "Taking dogs for a long summer walk is one of the great pleasures of owning our pets. Walking your dog has huge physical and mental health benefits, both for the animal and for the owner.
"But we can't just take our dogs anywhere. As owners, it's essential to be responsible and to only take our dogs to locations they are welcome. There are many places where pet lovers can be fined for walking their dogs. If you're heading to the beach it's essential to check beforehand if the beach is dog friendly or not. If you are lucky enough to find a dog-friendly beach it's essential to be responsible, that means ensuring your dog is on a lead when people, especially young children, are around and making sure you pick up and bag any poo and other rubbish and dispose of it responsibly.
"It's not just beaches which have policies on whether dogs can roam around or not. There are rules in place at supermarkets, fast food chains and cemeteries. There are policies in place to allow assistant dogs in some of these places, but for other dog owners don't be surprised if you receive a fine or are given a firm warning."
Here are seven places where dog owners can be fined for bringing their pets:
- Supermarkets
Dogs aren't allowed in supermarkets for various reasons like hygiene, to protect those who are allergic, but also to prevent any dangerous dogs from biting shoppers. Guide dogs, however, are allowed in stores.
- Fast food chains
As a food premise, many popular fast food chains don't allow dogs for hygienic reasons. Try and get some outdoor seats so you can enjoy a tasty treat without having to risk the possibility of a heavy fine.
- Beaches
Many beaches across areas like Devon and Wales have introduced a ban on dogs during peak times this summer. Dog walkers who bring their four-legged friends along the coasts could face hefty fines, but this doesn't apply to guide dogs. Make sure to look up the area you're staying in before taking your dog for a stroll.
- Buses
Assistance dogs are permitted on buses, but when it comes to other dogs, the rules depend solely on the driver. If a dog causes disruption or even worse, harm to other passengers, it won't be a good day for the bank account.
- Cemeteries
Dogs can't help themselves when it comes to digging up dirt, but the last place any owner wants their dog to start digging is at the cemetery. Some places have a strict no-dogs policy in place, so make sure to check first before bringing your pet.
- Train seats
Pets are permitted on most of the major train lines, however, there are regulations about where they can be and how they behave. The rules tend to allow pets on the train if they're on a lead and don't disturb other passengers. However, there is a strict policy which doesn't allow them to sit on seats.
- Farm parks
Farm parks tend to have a ban on dogs from the area, otherwise, it can disturb the other animals and frighten them. The owners of the farm could call the police if you refuse to remove the dog from the area and they could file charges for scaring their farm animals.
