Dog owners across the UK face being hit with a fine while out walking their pets this summer.
Experts have warned people could also be at risk of having their dog seized and could even face a prison sentence if they don't adhere to certain rules.
It is illegal for a dog to be on a highway or in a public place without a collar that includes the name and address of the owner attached, even if they are microchipped. The owner's name and address must be inscribed onto the collar or attached using a plate, badge or tag.
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The Control of Dogs Order 1992 clearly states that anyone responsible for causing or permitting a dog on a highway or public place without a collar will be found guilty of an offence against the Animal Health Act 1981. Although not putting a collar on your dog may seem harmless to some, the offence can be punishable with an eye-watering fine of £2000 and a six month custodial sentence.
As well as this, a dog without a collar can be treated as a stray under section 3 of the Dogs Act 1906 or section 149 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. This could mean the animal is seized by the authorities.
Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, told the ECHO: “With everyone feeling the financial pinch, the last thing pet owners need is a hefty fine for forgetting something so simple as popping the collar on their dog.
“The law may seem harsh, and having your pet seized seems unthinkable, but the rules are in place for good reason. It’s also essential to ensure that details are up to date on the collar and to be aware of the risks of not having the correct information.
“We also recommend that dog owners include their phone numbers on the collar in case of an emergency so that the pet can be safely returned quickly.”
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