22 May 2009, 09/109
Problem stray dogs cost more
Dog owners who repeatedly allow their dogs
to stray will face higher fees when their pet is picked up by the
Council.
The Council is increasing the charges that
owners have to pay for the return of their dogs in order to deter
persistent offenders and to try to recoup more of the costs of
controlling stray dogs.
The change means that owners of stray dogs
seized by the Council must pay £50 to have their pet
returned. Owners of dogs that are identified as a repeat or
persistent stray will pay £100. Previously there was a four-band
fee structure with charges ranging from £25 to £90. For more
information or to report a stray online visit www.westlancs.gov.uk/dogs.
David Tilleray, Executive Manager for
Community Services, said: “The Council recognises that the majority
of dog owners act responsibly, but some people repeatedly allow
their pets to stray. From now on, people whose dogs are picked up
repeatedly will have to pay more to get their pet back. The new fee
structure is firm but fair and should help prevent stray dogs from
causing fouling, nuisance and road traffic accidents.
“All dog owners should make sure they don’t
let their pet stray. Simply providing your dog with identification
such as a tag, microchip or tattoo isn’t enough. If you let it
stray it may be seized.”
All stray dogs are taken to Leigh Dogs and
Cats Home, where they are kept safely and securely for 7 days. If
the owner does not collect the dog within 7 days, it is offered for
re-homing.
Report a stray dog
Related information