The United Kingdom is well known for having pet-loving residents. However, many devoted pet owners are unaware of a slew of strange regulations that, if broken, can cost you insurmountable fines.
In fact, in the UK, there are still many strange UK laws that still exist, some of which are specifically about animals as revealed by EM Law’s webpage. Let’s explore some of these in more detail below.
Cows cannot be walked down the street during daylight
Cows cannot be walked down the street during daylightIf you have cows, keep them away from the road throughout the day. It is technically illegal to walk them down the street, even if you take them for a stroll.
The Metropolitan Streets Act of 1867 prohibits cows from being driven down the street between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. There are exceptions, and those with authorisation from the Commissioner of Police can have their cows on the roads.
Beached Whales must be offered to the ruling king
If you come across a beached whale or sturgeon, you must offer it to the reigning monarch. According to Edward II’s proclamation in 1322, the ‘spermaceti and head of a whale’ were to be presented to the monarch, but the rest of the carcass was to be given to the finder.
The tradition of providing whales and sturgeons to the monarchy dates back to medieval times when they were both considered a delicacy. Similarly, in Iceland, when any beached whale washes ashore, this must be reported to the local sheriff, who will then decide on whether to give it to their queen or king.
You cannot be drunk while managing cattle
You might not think this would be a problem, but it is illegal to drink alcohol and ride a horse in the UK. The Licensing Act of 1872 prohibits anyone from being “drunk while in charge on any highway or other public place of any carriage, horse, cattle, or steam engine.”
There should be no pigsties in front of your house
You might not think twice about where you put your pigsty, but there are laws dictating where they should go in the UK. According to the Town Police Clauses Act of 1847, having a pigsty in front of your house is illegal. The law was put in place to keep streets clean and waste-free.
Allowing your dog to mate with a royal canine
This is probably one of the strangest laws on the list and one with the most atrocious past. When it is unlikely that you will come across the royal canines while out walking your dog, you should know it is illegal for your dog to mate with any dog from the royal house.
The surprising fact regarding this is that even until 1965, if somebody was caught allowing their dog to mate with one from a royal household, this would have resulted in the death penalty!
Conclusion
EM Law is a technology lawyer expert firm that specialises in handling a variety of technology projects. As mentioned in their infographic, there are some unusual UK laws that are still enforced today. So, if you’re ever thinking of walking your cow down the street or letting your dog mate with a royal canine, think again!
