Stray Dogs are a Nuisance
They can cause road traffic accidents and damage people’s property for which the owner of the dog may be liable. Also stray dogs potentially can harm themselves, other animals and people. They may foul public areas and pavements. Owners have a responsibility to keep their dogs under control and prevent them from straying.
Mansfield District Council Dog Control Service seized in excess of 600 dogs last year, and the owners of these find themselves with a significant cost to recover their dog, or may even have their dog re-homed.
Some Simple Steps to Stop Your Dog Straying
A dog can go missing for all sorts of reasons – a moment’s inattention, a missing panel in the garden fence, a door or gate left ajar, fireworks or other sudden loud noises such as thunder or vehicles. An un-neutered male dog in particular is more likely to stray from an owner’s property if there is an unspayed female dog in ‘season’ in the area. All these and more can cause dogs to find themselves lost.
- Ensure that all fences around your home are secure, and that gates have a closing device.
- Train your dog not to run off when you are out walking, and don’t let it run off where you can’t see the dog.
- Give your dog plenty of exercise and provide toys etc. – they are more likely to run off and stray if bored!
- Do not let your dog out to roam – always make sure that there is someone with the dog that can keep it under control.
- Neuter your dog – it’s better for its health, and helps to stop it wanting to escape.
If your dog hasn’t been neutered as yet, and you are concerned about your pet straying, your vet is a good place to start.
Since 6th April 2016 all dogs must be microchipped; this can help the Dog Control Officer to locate the owner of the dog. It doesn’t replace the need for a collar and tag (The Control of Dogs Order 1992 requires any dog in a public place to wear a collar or tag with the name and address of the owner engraved or written on it) – but it is useful if your dog manages to lose their collar or tag.
Our Dog Control Service offers low cost microchipping within the comfort of your own home. For more information please see our microchipping page.
If you wish to speak with your Dog Control Officer, you can contact us as follows:
Tel: 01623 463189 or email dogcontrol@mansfield.gov.uk