Thursday 23 January 2014
Environment Department response to media enquiry from Guernsey Press.
Guernsey Press Enquiry:
We have had a number of readers raise concerns recently over dog attacks and the need for pets to be on leads in public places.
Given that Environment is responsible for a large number of public spaces, could the department give its response to these concerns?
Would or is it considering introducing any rules to ensure dogs are on leads?
What advice would it give to anyone with concerns?
Environment Department Response:
The Control of Dogs Ordinance, 1992, covers a limited number of areas where dogs must be kept on a lead and also prohibits dogs from other areas. Irrespective of the law it is incumbent on all owners (or anyone responsible for a dog when it is out) to maintain control of their dog whether on or off the lead in public places and be able to recall the dog promptly to avoid nuisance or injury to people, or other animals including birds. If an owner is not confident that a dog is obedient and will return immediately when called, or is out of sight, then the dog is not under the owner's control. Dogs should be trained in recall from an early age and if they are resistant or inconsistent after training they should be kept on a lead in public places.
The Environment Department receives relatively few complaints from the public in respect of dogs not controlled by their owners. In general this is a seasonal issue when the beaches and parks are busier in summer months and in recent years the Department's staff has worked with the Police to visit areas where specific problems were occurring to speak to owners. A requirement for dog owners to keep their pets on leads in more public areas would necessitate a change in the legislation. To date there has not been a weight of public opinion expressed which would indicate a clear need for a change in the law but if people feel this is necessary they should write to their Deputy or the Environment Department in order that the level of concern can be assessed.
-ENDS-
Contact Information:
Environmental Services Unit
Environment Department
Tel: 717200
