Dog owners in Wolverhampton warned to keep pets under close control after increase in complaints

The local authority has recently updated its Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which requires dogs to be kept on a lead at specified locations including cemeteries and major arterial routes. Owners must keep their dogs under control at all times.

This means, for example, making sure they are able to be recalled, do not run up to other dogs and do not cause nuisance to other walkers, dogs and their owners. The amended dog control PSPO will come into force on October 1 and anyone found not complying with it runs the risk of an on-the-spot fine of £80 and also the possibility of being taken to court and prosecuted.

Councillor Craig Collingswood, cabinet member for environment and climate change, said: “The vast majority of dog owners are very responsible and would not put others in danger. But there are a small minority who are unwilling to keep their dogs under control or clean up after them.

“Unfortunately, we have received an increase in complaints about dogs this year. These relate to dog control issues and reflect a rise in complaints nationally.

“Our updated PSPO has been strengthened to help us deal with these issues. The PSPO includes requirements for dogs to be on a lead at identified locations across the city including major arterial routes and in cemeteries, as well as the requirement to carry a suitable means of removing dog faeces.

“This is in addition to the requirement that all dogs must be under control at all times. Anyone who does not comply with the order may face an on-the-spot fine of £80 and could face the possibility of being taken to court. Information leaflets and free dog faeces collection bags will be handed out to dog walkers at our parks and green spaces over the coming weeks.

“The PSPO, which does not apply to assistance dogs, is being introduced following a public consultation and will be in place for three years, with its impact closely monitored and the opportunity for a further public consultation at a mid-way point to ensure the measures are effective,” he added.

“The council continues to work closely with police and we would urge all dog owners to take responsibility for their pets. Residents can inform the authorities if they are aware of, or are concerned about, a dangerous dog.

“We hope that the newly strengthened order will help reduce any potential stress and harm to people and other animals from dogs that are a nuisance or a danger and will also help us preserve a clean and safe public environment.”

Dogs will also not be allowed in water features or facilities in authority-controlled and maintained areas such as parks and open spaces, town centres, nature reserves and country parks under the PSPO. This will include formal features such as ornamental fountains, drinking fountains and ponds, features designated for children’s play such as pools and splash pads, as well as natural ponds designated as habitats for wildlife.

Councillor Carol Hyatt said: “Since April this year there has already been 63 complaints about out of control and dangerous dogs, so I would appeal for all dog owners to take particular care and act responsibly. The next highest number of complaints was 74 for the whole of 2018-19.

“If anyone witnesses an incident where a dog owner is not behaving responsibly, they should report it to the council using the form on the website. If we can prevent even one incident from happening then I think it’s well worth it to warn people.”

Anyone with concerns about a dog can report them to the council’s customer services team on 01902 551155. To find out more about the updated PSPO visit wolverhampton.gov.uk/environment-and-climate/animal-issues/proposed-dog-control-pspo