As a professional dog walker can I carry pepper spray? (UK)

It’s understandable to be concerned about your own safety as a professional dog walker, however, attacks on dog walkers are very rare in the UK. But if you did want to carry some form of protection, what’s legal? Let’s take a look at what you can and can’t do in the UK.

Pepper Spray

In the UK, the laws regarding carrying pepper spray, or any type of weapon or self-defence tool, are quite strict.

It is illegal to carry pepper spray or any item designed for use in self-defence, such as stun guns or extendable batons, in public places. Possession of such items without a valid reason is considered a criminal offense.

Pepper spray is classified as a firearm under the Firearms Act 1968 and the Offensive Weapons Act 2019. It is generally prohibited for the general public to possess, purchase, or carry pepper spray in the UK.

The relevant law is Section 5(1)(b) of the Firearms Act 1968, which states:

“A person commits an offence if he has in his possession any weapon of whatever description designed or adapted for the discharge of any noxious liquid, gas or other thing.”

Section 5(1)(b) of the Firearms Act 1968

There are some exceptions to this rule, such as certain law enforcement officers and individuals with specific licenses or exemptions. However, for the average person, carrying pepper spray for self-defence purposes is not allowed in the UK.

Personal Alarms

Yes, carrying a personal attack alarm is legal and permitted in the UK. Personal attack alarms, also known as personal safety alarms or rape alarms, are small devices that emit a loud noise when activated. They are designed to attract attention and deter potential attackers or to alert others to a dangerous situation.

Personal attack alarms are considered non-offensive weapons and are generally legal to carry for self-defence purposes. They are widely available for purchase and are commonly used by individuals, especially for personal safety and security, particularly in situations where they may feel vulnerable, such as walking alone at night.

Clearly, these alarms are going to be more useful if you’re the type of dog walker who walks in populated areas such as streets or parks. If you’ve taken a group of dogs out for a countryside walk it’s less likely that anyone is going to hear your alarm go off.

Something to bear in mind with these alarms is that they need to be easy for you to get to and set off. Having it buried at the bottom of your walking bag as a ‘just in case’ item isn’t going to be helpful to you. Find one that will clip to your keys, or your belt or bag strap instead.

If you’re ever unsure about whether you should be setting it off or not, do it. It’s better to set it off, confuse the person you were worried about and gain the attention of passersby than to not set it off and leave it too late.

Body Worn Cameras

In the UK, you generally have the right to record video or audio in public places, including using a body camera, as long as you are not infringing on someone else’s privacy or engaging in unlawful activities. However, there are some important considerations and limitations to keep in mind:

1. Privacy: While recording in public is generally allowed, you should be mindful of respecting the privacy of individuals. Avoid recording in areas where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as bathrooms, changing rooms, or private property.
2. Data Protection: If you plan to capture and store personal data (such as images or videos of individuals) as part of your recording, you may need to comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. This means you must have a lawful basis for processing personal data and take appropriate measures to protect it.
3. Police and Law Enforcement: Different rules may apply if you are recording interactions with police or law enforcement officers. The right to record in these situations is generally recognized, but there may be certain circumstances where restrictions apply. It’s advisable to exercise caution and be cooperative if instructed by law enforcement.
4. Public Order and Harassment: Engaging in activities that disrupt public order or harass individuals is not protected by the right to record in public. Ensure that your recording activities do not interfere with the safety, well-being, or rights of others.
5. Specific Locations and Events: Some places or events may have additional restrictions on recording, such as courtrooms, military installations, or certain private venues. Always abide by any specific rules or signage regarding photography or recording.

Some of the higher quality cameras can produce some really good footage from your walks to add to your social media feeds so they can serve a dual purpose. (Don’t forget to put the purchase cost through as a business expense).

FARB Spray

FARB gel is a type of self-defense spray that is made from a non-toxic, water-based gel. It is used to mark an attacker so that they can be identified by the police. FARB gel can also be used to deter an attacker by making it difficult for them to see.

FARB gel is legal in the UK and it is not considered a weapon under the Firearms Act 1968 because it does not contain any noxious substances.

Just like your personal attack alarm, Farb gel won’t do you any favours by lurking at the bottom of your backpack. Keep it close and easy to get to.

To use it, just aim at your attacker and press down the button. There’s no complicated lock and the spray will travel up to 4 metres away. If you ever have to deploy the spray, do so and immediately leave and find a place of safety.

Maglite Torches

Lots of people will suggest carrying a Maglite torch for protection in the UK.

Maglite torches have a long heavy handle which is where the batteries are making it a heavy, metal-cased weapon if needed.

However, the law states that Maglite torches are legal to carry in the UK, as long as they are not intended to be used as a weapon.

If you’re on a midday walk with a dog then it’s highly likely that the ONLY reason you’re carrying a torch is for self-defence. Don’t risk it when there are other, legal, alternatives.