Bizarre pet laws: £100 fine for no poo bag

Animal-loving tourists have been warned of bizarre pet laws abroad which could see them hit with thousands in fines or even jailed. 

With annoying pets banned in Scotland and huge fines for not carrying a dog poo bag in England, experts have warned those travelling to do their research.

No annoying pooches: Different pet laws around the world

Tourists have been warned of bizarre international pet laws which could see them hit with hefty fines.

The holiday car rental experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have researched the ten weirdest pet laws around the world which could see owners left out of pocket. 

Checking the criteria for taking a pet to a new country is essential with microchipping, having a valid pet passport or animal health certificate and checking rules around quarantine all standard.

But it’s some of the more unusual rules which could leave owners counting the cost.

Making ugly faces at a dog in Oklahoma could see perpetrators fined, arrested, or even jailed, while dog owners in Italy could be fined up to €500 for not walking their pets at least three times a day.

John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com said: “Aside from vaccinations, certificates and travel logistics, pet owners must be aware of varying international laws when travelling abroad.

“It’s becoming increasingly popular to bring our furry friends as travel companions, but it is important to do the necessary research to ensure that there are no complications while away. 

“Laws differ from country to country, and pet owners who fail to do their research could find themselves in trouble with the law and with hefty fines.”

These are the ten most bizarre pet laws around the world, according to StressFreeCarRental.com.

1. No annoying pets – Scotland 

Under the Civic Government Act 1982, there is a specific section on ‘annoying creatures.’ It is illegal for pet owners to allow them to annoy any other person in a public place.  

2. Ugly Faces- Oklahoma, USA 

Make sure not to tease your pooch because, in some parts of Oklahoma, people who make ugly faces at dogs could be fined and even face prison time.  

3. Tying up pets – Spain 

New Spanish laws in September brought in new rules for pet owners which could see fines of €200,000. Rules include not leaving an animal alone or tied up in public spaces.  

4. Not having a poo bag- Daventry, England 

A Public Spaces Protection Order came into force across Daventry District in 2015, meaning that dog walkers risk a £100 fine and potential prosecution if they do not have a poo bag, regardless of if the pet fouls or not.  

5. Proper training- Australia 

In Australia, dogs must legally be given the appropriate training and socialisation to prevent destructive behaviours from developing including digging and barking. Under legislative requirements, dogs are not allowed to create a nuisance.  

6. Tapeworm – Ireland

 Legally, anyone bringing a dog to Ireland from a non-EU country must get it treated for tapeworm each time it travels into the country.

7. Plenty of walkies – Turin, Italy 

Pet owners in Turin face a €500 fine if they fail to walk their dog at least three times a day under a law from the city council. 

8. Cats on leads- Lőrinci, Hungary 

A 2001 law introduced in Lőrinci, Hungary, made it illegal to take a cat outside and on the street without a lead.  

9. Six-hour rule- Sweden 

By Swedish law, pooches must be taken for a walk at least every six hours, meaning dog daycare centres and pet sitters are widely used across the country for those working.

10. No large dogs- China, Beijing 

Beijing law states that 14 inches is the maximum height a dog can be. This means travellers with popular breeds like St. Bernards and Greyhounds will not be able to bring their furry friends.