Dog Walking Business Owner Expresses Concern Over Potential New Regulations

A professional dog walker expresses apprehension regarding potential new regulations concerning dog walking, fearing a negative impact on her enterprise. South Kesteven District Council (SKDC) has initiated a public survey to gather opinions on proposals to restrict the quantity of dogs an individual can walk concurrently. According to the RSPCA’s recommendation of a four-dog limit, Sara Barnes, a 48-year-old resident of Grantham, stated that implementing such a restriction would result in a one-third reduction of her earnings per walking session. SKDC clarified that no regulation has been established thus far and urged dog walkers to participate in the ongoing survey. Ms. Barnes, who has operated her business for six years, indicated that adhering to the RSPCA’s guidelines could place her enterprise in “dire straits.” Beyond the potential financial repercussions, she also voiced apprehension regarding the practical enforcement of any forthcoming regulation. “You could get false reporting and that could cause problems,” she said.“How do you enforce it? Will there be dog wardens?” The survey extends an invitation to dog owners, animal welfare organizations, and relevant businesses to contribute their perspectives. Should the feedback indicate support for the proposition, a public space protection order, valid for a maximum of three years, would be deliberated following further consultation. Councillor Rhea Rayside, the cabinet member for people and communities, stated that the survey aims to “determine if there’s any concern by the public about how many dogs any one individual can walk with.” She further commented: “I understand people’s concerns, but at the moment we’re determining concern from the public.”