RSPCA calls for dog rules to be relaxed in lockdown

Animal welfare experts are calling on councils to easing some locally-imposed rules over where dogs can be exercised to help owners comply with lockdown rules.

Many councils have introduced Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs) – which often include strict rules on where dogs cannot be walked.

The RSPCA has called on local authorities to consider temporarily easing some of these rules to help dog walkers comply with lockdown rules and prevent the spread of Covid-19.

It says this would help stop unnecessary travel by enabling dog walkers to exercise within their immediate communities and comply with lockdown measures.

People may only exercise once a day, though people from the same household can walk the same dog.

Dr Samantha Gaines, head of the RSPCA’s companion animals department, said: "With the national lockdown, there are clear restrictions in place concerning exercise, which will impact many dog walkers.

“Many local authorities have Public Spaces Protection Orders that stop dogs being walked in certain areas."

She added: “With restrictions now back in place on travel for exercise, this can really limit the dog walking options some people have and creates something of a postcode lottery for dogs and their owners – with many places out of bounds for dog walkers.

“If dog owners do not have adequate space to exercise their dogs near their homes, they may make journeys beyond their immediate communities and breach Covid-19 rules. We’re calling on local authorities to be flexible at this time and temporarily relax PSPOs where it is safe and appropriate to do so.”