Concerns over increase in stray dog collections

Not only is it unsafe if an owner abandons or loses their dog, but it can also be a danger to the general public. If in distress, a dog could become aggressive to others and can also cause serious motor accidents if they were to run in front of a moving vehicle.

If you are unable to care for your dog or are struggling to meet any health costs and looking to rehome, there are a variety of local rehoming centres and breed specific centres which will look to help you rehome your dog.

However you can take responsible steps to ensure your pooch doesn’t become a stray. These include ensuring:

• they are microchipped and details are up to date
• they wear a collar and identity tag
• gardens are safe and secure
• they are kept under control in public spaces
• you take out insurance so you can pay for vet bills or save a little each month.

Councillor Roger Jackson, Portfolio Holder for Cleaner, Safer, Greener at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “As part of our ongoing campaign to promote responsible dog ownership, our CPOs have spent time visiting local green spaces, giving out advice, free poo bags and leaflets to the many people exercising their dogs.

“Our message is clear: Do the right thing and don’t dump your dog. There are many charities and centres that can offer advice and support should anyone run into any difficulties.”

For more information regarding animal welfare, including how to be a responsible dog owner, what to do if you’ve lost or found a dog and how to report dog fouling, please visit the District Council website - www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk