Dog owners are being reminded of changes to dog licensing rules which become effective on 3 October.
The new rules deal with the control conditions for problem dogs, dog licence fees and fixed penalty notices.
Increase in fees
From the start of next month, individual dog licence fees will increase from £5 to £12.50, while block licence fees will increase from £12.50 to £32. There will be concessions for dog owners aged 65 or over and those in receipt of certain benefits. Owners who have had their dog neutered will also be able to get a reduced fee.
Dog wardens will have powers to impose certain control conditions on the licence of individual dogs in order to control problem behaviour. The range of control conditions available include:
- a requirement to keep a dog muzzled when in public
- keeping a dog away from certain specified public places
- keeping a dog securely confined
All dog owners are also being advised to microchip their animals as soon as possible.
Compulsory microchipping is being introduced in spring 2012.
Owners may currently take advantage of free chipping provided through local councils, the Dogs Trust and participating veterinary practices.
This free service will be available until April 2012 and further details can be obtained from local council dog wardens.
http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/new...of-licensing-changes
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