London — The Associated Press
Published on Tuesday, Mar. 02, 2010 11:31AM EST
An English dog-owner has been fined after taking his pet for a stroll while driving next to him in his car.
Prosecutors said Paul Railton was spotted driving at low speed along a country lane in December, holding his dog's leash through the car window as the animal trotted alongside.
Mr. Railton pleaded guilty Monday to not being in proper control of a vehicle. His lawyer, Paul Donoghue, said 23-year-old Railton acknowledged “it was a silly thing to do and there was an element of laziness” while exercising his lurcher.
Mr. Railton was ordered by magistrates in Consett, northeast England, to pay a 66 pound ($100 U.S.) fine, plus costs.
He also received three penalty points on his license and, due to existing points, is now barred from driving for six months.
