In this weeks issue of "Our Dogs" Sept 28.07, I was interested to read two articles in their factfile section relating to a local authorities dog control orders, which might be interesting to bear in mind or take action on at the consultation stages.

The KC DOG, the Kennel Club scheme to help dog owners protect their rights and freedoms, was alerting all dog owners in the Isle of Wight to the consultation that the Isle of Wight Council is currently running on its proposed dog control orders.

The proposed dog control order would include making it an offence to not have a dog on a lead in certain areas, and banning them altogether from other areas, including a number of beaches, from April to October inclusive. The Council is also banning dogs within a 10 metre radius around children's play areas. To comply dog owners would have to keep their dogs on a lead in the whole park, an unnecessary restriction as children's play areas are enclosed. Those who exercise dogs and have children will not be able to keep a close eye on their children while they exercise their dogs nearby.

For more information go to the information site at Isle of Wight and also email community support

The consultation of these orders runs until the 12th October after which the consultation will be closed. As this is the only time residents will be asked for their imput affecting the DC orders, the KC DOG encourages residents to have their say while they can.

Dog Control orders may include some or all of the following offences:
1. Failing to remove dog faeces from land to which the order applies
2. Not keeping a dog on a lead when on land to which the order applies
3. Not putting and keeping a dog on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised officer.
4, Permitting a dog to enter land from which dogs are excluded.
5. Taking onto land in respect of which the order applies, more than a maximum number of dogs

Local Authorities have had increased power since the new act came into force in April 2006, however when consulting the public councils are only legally obliged to put a small advert in the local paper advertising the consultation period. To join the KC DOG, or for further information please contact KC DOG email - kcdog@thekennelclub.org.uk or telephone 020-7518-1020

The paper goes on with another article about a similar situation in Colchester. Unfortunately the consultation period on that has ended on the 30th September.

Following this David spotted in the Daily Mail 1 October 2007..the following

A mother and daughter have been warned that they face a £30 fine for walking too many dogs. They apparently walk their five dogs and three others belonging to a disabled friend, everyday.

Council bosses at Kingsclere Parish Council, Hampshire, told them they can take out only three dogs at a time - amid claims that joggers have been bitten. The owner said she had never heard anything so ludicrous in her life. They are are careful dog owners and don't cause any trouble. She was not sure what they expected them to do, walk some dogs, then go out again with the rest......