Information for Dog owners.

I have recently had enquiries from residents who have been frightened by dogs that are not properly controlled by their owners.  All dog owners should appreciate that even though your dog is friendly and fun loving, it may not appear like this to anyone else, especially if it is off the lead and allowed to run up to them. In my experience most dog owners are responsible and abide by the rules, but the information below is a reminder for us all.

Dogs can be classed as a nuisance by not being under full control and running up to people and other dogs. Dog Wardens regularly deal with these matters, if the dog owners are known, they will contact them to try and educate them on responsible ownership and the need to have greater control.

Please ensure your dog is trained to respond to your commands and stays close to you. If your dog wanders out of sight or doesn’t come back when called, it should be walked on a lead.

Dangerous dogs, which have attacked, or you fear will attack a person are dealt with by the police. If you have any worries about an out-of-control dog, please call Wiltshire Police on 101

Many of Wiltshire’s public rights of way cross fields used to grow crops or graze animals. People walking their dogs are welcome, provided dogs are kept under control and their owners clear up after them.  Dogs running loose can disturb wild animals and ground nesting birds.

Clearing up after your dog helps prevent the spread of some nasty infections and diseases. Dog mess can contain roundworm parasites which cause Toxocariasis in humans and causes harm to farm animals. Regular worming is a very important for your dog’s health as well as your own.

Dog wardens have the powers to issue fixed penalty notices of £75 to anyone seen not clearing up after their dog. Failure to do this could lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000. Dog wardens respond to the public’s reports of fouling problems. They carry out patrols throughout Wiltshire, specifically targeting well used dog walking areas. So please ensure that you clear up after your dog. ‘Bag and Bin it’, any litter bin will do. Please do not leave the bag hanging from a branch for someone else to dispose of.

The Dog Warden service is available 9am-5pm Monday-Friday, excluding bank holidays. Tel: 0300 456 0107 Email: lostdogs@wiltshire.gov.uk Out of office hours, please report stray or lost dogs on 0300 456 0107

Please don’t hesitate to contact me if there are local matters that you think I can help with.

Suzanne Wickham

Wiltshire Councillor – Ethandune

Email: Suzanne.wickham@wiltshire.gov.uk Tel: 07967 213336