Dogs
Pages in Dogs
- 1. You are here: Dogs
- 2. Lost and found dogs
- 3. Dog control fees and charges
- 4. Re-home a dog
- In emergencies, call 01737 276 000 and they will contact the Dog Warden immediately.
- Dog fouling and dog control can be reported to our Joint Enforcement Team (JET).
- If you need to report irresponsible dog owners you can complete our Dogs Lost, Found or Complaint form (opens in a new window).
Microchipping
Under The Microchipping of Cats and Dogs (England) Regulations 2023 all dogs over eight weeks old must be microchipped and registered on a UK compliant database. It is a quick, simple and painless procedure that can be done to any dog over eight weeks' old. A microchip with a unique number is inserted under the skin on the back of the neck. The owner's details are recorded on a national database and matched to that unique number.
Dog fouling
Faeces can carry and transmit disease to children, particularly toxocariasis which can cause blindness.
Failure to clean up after your dog is an offence and you may face a fixed penalty fine of £80. However, if the fine is unpaid, the owner may be prosecuted and be liable for a fine of up to £1,000.
Dog Public Space Protection Orders
Dogs' behaviour is regulated across the borough through Dogs Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs).
Borough-wide orders cover dog fouling, dogs on lead by direction and the maximum number of dogs that can be walked by one person at any one time.
Individual parks and open spaces, including play areas, also have PSPOs that set out dogs on lead and dog exclusion areas. Dog exclusion and dog on lead areas on our Where I Live Maps feature.
The PSPOs regulating dogs' behaviour were last reviewed in October 2023, following a five week public consultation.
Where a person responsible for a dog does not follow the requirements of the PSPO(s), the council may issue them with a fixed penalty notice of £80 or, ultimately they may be prosecuted with a maximum £1,000 penalty on conviction.
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Find out more about the Dogs Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs)
Dangerous dogs
It is against the law to let a dog be dangerously out of control. See Controlling your dog in public - GOV.UK.
You can report dog attacks on other animals and animal welfare to us. Dog attacks on people should be reported to the Police.
- To report irresponsible dog owners complete our Dogs Lost, Found or Complaint form (opens in a new window).
Dog warden
The council’s Dog Warden works closely with the RSPCA, Animal Welfare Officers, the Police and Animal Sanctuaries and offers sound and friendly advice to those who need it.