Dogs

Responsible dog ownership

We want to promote responsible dog ownership in Pendle, and we follow the guidelines laid out in the Animal Welfare Act. Our working practices are based around this guidance, and the kennels we use for our stray dogs also follow these guidelines strictly.

We aren't trying to catch people out. We just want to protect animals that do not receive proper care.

If you are concerned about a dog or other animal not being properly cared for, contact the RSPCAs 24-hour Cruelty Line on 0300 1234 999. 

Microchipping

It is the law that all dogs must be microchipped with the correct owner details. Microchipping is a permanent way of identifying your dog. It can help to reunite you with your dog, if it is lost or stolen.

A microchip is a small electronic device, the size of a grain of rice. It is coded with a unique number that can be read by a scanner. 

The microchip is injected through a sterile needle under the dog's skin, between the shoulder blades. No anaesthetic is needed, and the procedure causes no more discomfort than a standard vaccination.

There are over 10,000 scanners in use in the UK, at vets, local authorities and animal welfare groups. These scanners can be used to check stray dogs to see if they have been microchipped. If they have, the organisation contacts a national database to find the owners details. Dogs can then be returned to their owners quickly and easily.

Collar and tag

It is a legal requirement that every dog in a public place (even if they are microchipped) must wear an identity tag displaying the owners surname and address. Including a contact telephone number is also a good idea. If you don't, you could be fined.

Responsible walking

  • On busy and main roads, ALWAYS keep your dog on a lead to prevent any accidents
  • Keep your dog on a lead in town centres - these are busy areas full of people, not all of whom will like dogs. Your dog may be frightened by loud noises and vehicles, leading to possible accidents
  • In our parks, be aware of other users, and do not allow your dog to be a nuisance to them

When walking in the countryside, remember the Countryside Code:

  • Always keep to public rights of way
  • Clean up after your dog responsibly
  • Do not allow your dog off lead near any livestock
  • Always close gates behind you

Neutering

Breeding dogs without thinking about it carefully can lead to unwanted litters of puppies. These can often be dumped, allowed to stray, or killed. Neutering your dog to stop it having puppies can help to reduce this problem. Contact your vet for advice. If you are on benefits, contact our Dog Wardens. They can give you details of help available towards the cost of neutering.

Training

Basic training in commands such as "sit," "stay," "come," and "no," can all help to control your dog so that it does not become a nuisance in the local area. It can also prevent your dog from straying, as you will have control of it at all times.

Poop scoops

Every dog owner must, by law, clean up after their dog in a public place.