Unlicensed dog day care business owner prosecuted
On 21 October 2024, Harriet Poupart from Mill Lane, Pirbright, pleaded guilty to operating a dog day care business without a licence. The business, known as 'Poupy's Pooches', operated illegally between 2 December 2018 and 26 March 2024.
Miss Poupart pleaded guilty to the charges and received a £1,000 fine. She was also instructed to pay full costs to the council and a victim surcharge of £400, a total of £3,939.76.
It is an offence to operate such a business without a licence, under Section 13 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.
Lead Councillor for Regulatory and Democratic Services, Cllr Merel Rehorst-Smith, said:
"Unlicensed dog day care facilities are not regulated regarding the safety, health, and welfare of our pets. Operators may not have the required knowledge and training in relation to the animals which are entrusted to them. They also take business away from legitimate, licensed premises."
Who needs a licence?
We issue licences to pet carers and companies after a thorough inspection.
- dog day care
- kennels
- home boarders
- catteries
This makes sure they understand how to handle animals, provide a safe environment and feed them correctly.
What licensed pet carers and companies should do
- display their licence details on all online advertising, including social media
- have a licence on the premises, which you should ask for before arranging pet care with them
Unlicensed premises are often not covered by any insurance which they may have. This means if a claim is made, no money is paid out.
Unlicensed operators have a commercial advantage over reputable providers who follow the licence conditions and regulations.
Cllr Rehorst-Smith added:
"If you are thinking of using a dog day care facility, please do your research. Ask them if they have a licence and check with our Animal Welfare team if you're suspicious or have any doubts."
How to make sure you use a licensed provider
We urge dog owners to check who is looking after their dogs whilst they are at work or away. There are lots of licensed establishments in the borough.
Find a licensed provider (opens new window)
Animal activities requiring a licence
- Dog day care
- Dog boarding (in kennels, or home boarding)
- Cat boarding in a cattery
- Selling animals as pets
- Hiring out horses
- Keeping or training animals for exhibition
- Keeping a zoo
- Keeping dangerous, wild animals.
How to report an unlicensed activity
Email regulatoryservices@guildford.gov.uk
Call us on 01483 505050
Published on 11 November