Responsible dog ownership campaign

We carry out responsible dog ownership campaigns in hotspot areas countywide. Education and engagement involves:

• our anti-dog fouling mascot Scoop the dog visiting schools to educate youngsters on the importance of being a responsible dog owner
• free dog micro chipping events
• street signage erected in hotspot dog fouling areas to encourage people to pick up after their dog
• increased Neighbourhood wardens in target areas to catch those who fall foul of the law.

Being a responsible dog owner

A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) means we can fine irresponsible dog owners. Find out more on Enforcement powers for irresponsible dog owners.

Top tips

• Your dog must be walked and exercised with a responsible dog owner present.
• Never allow your dog to wander, roam loose or exercise on its own.
• You must pick up after your dog and dispose of waste properly.
• Bagged dog foul can be put in public waste bins or you can take your bagged dog waste home with you and place it into your household rubbish bin.
• Please do not put dog waste in your recycling bin as it will contaminate your recycling.
• Your dog must be microchipped.
• Your dog must always wear a collar and identification tag, with contact details, so your dog can be identified if it becomes lost or a stray dog.

Your dog must wear a tag

The Control of Dogs Order 1992 states that all dogs must wear a collar and ID tag when out in public. This tag must detail the owner's name and address and applies whether your dog is on a lead or not. Contravention of this order is an offence and risks a fine of up to £2000.

The legislation states there are exemptions, including:

• any pack of hounds
• any dog while being used for sporting purposes
• any dog while being used for the capture or destruction of vermin
• any dog while being used for the driving or tending of cattle or sheep
• any dog while being used on official duties by a member of Her Majesty's Armed Forces or Her Majesty's Customs and Excise or the police force for any area
• any dog while being used in emergency rescue work
• any dog registered with the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Dog micro chipping 

Dog microchipping

Report dog fouling