Tackling Irresponsible Dog Ownership

Those of you who have read the current edition of Hackney Today will have seen a piece talking about the council going out to consult on whether there is a case for restrictions on where dogs can be excercised freely in the borough.

When Alan was Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, he set in track a process which is now coming to the fore of introducing increased help and support for dog owners - responding to some of the biggest concerns raised regularly by residents. All councillors receive complaints about irresponsible dog owners - everything from dogs mess on the streets (the council have started to fine those responsible) to dangerous dogs, dog fighting, damaging trees and dogs being left unattended in flats.

As a result, Alan asked officers to work up proposals to introduce free or discounted dog chipping, training for dog owners and consider whether some parts of our parks and open spaces be made free from dogs.

Steps that the council are taking to help dog owners are available here and people should note the next session of free dog advice and training in St John's Churchyard on 4 May between 2-6pm. So people who have a dog that isn't chipped, or who want more advice on getting their dog trained should pop along.

Alan welcomed the move: "When I was in the Cabinet, I listened to residents' concerns about dogs in the borough and we took the first steps to tackle the problem.

"I'm pleased to see that the council continues to take this work forward and I hope that the steps we take help ensure that fewer dogs are left abandoned, or cause distress to other residents of the borough."

We are keen to hear your views about the upcoming consultation on introducing Dog Control Orders - would you support parts of London Fields or Hackney Downs becoming "dog free"? Let us know and we will also keep you up to date with the consultation.