Unlicensed doggy daycare owner prosecuted

A Surrey-based doggy daycare owner has been prosecuted for operating her business without a licence.

Harriet Poupart from Mill Lane, Pirbright, pleaded guilty to operating the business, known as Poupy’s Pooches, operated illegally between 2 December 2018 and 26 March 2024.

It is an offence to operate such a business without a licence, under Section 13 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Cllr Merel Rehorst-Smith, Lead Councillor for Regulatory and Democratic Services, said: “Unlicensed dog daycare 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.”

Poupart received a £1,000 fine and was also instructed to pay full costs to the council and a victim surcharge of £400, a total of £3,939.76.