WITH the school holidays now in full swing and an increase of children out playing, Cookstown District Council is advising all dog owners of the need for controlling their dogs.
Dogs not kept under proper control can cause all sorts of problems and most can lead to the owners facing damages or prosecution for offences under The Dogs (NI) Order 1983.
Uncontrolled dogs can cause Road Traffic accidents, attack people and liv
estock, foul in amenity areas and generally cause a nuisance to neighbours.
Dog owners must bear in mind that not everyone likes dogs in fact some people and children are terrified if they meet a dog which appears to be “uncontrolled”.
The simple answer is, no matter how much control you think you have over your dog always keep it on a lead when in a Public place.
Noel Newell, Cookstown Council, Enforcement Officer commented “A well controlled dog is a credit to its owner and ensures a safe environment for everyone both young and old.” He urged everyone to follow these simple guidelines.
• Keep your dog under control at all times.
• Clean up after your dog when out and about or at home.
• Don’t let your dog become a source of annoyance to anyone else.
Dog owners are advised that it is their responsibility to ensure that their pets do not cause any risk to other members of the public and those who do not keep them under control could find themselves facing formal sanctions.
The full article contains 257 words and appears in Mid Ulster Mail Cookstown newspaper.
