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Dog ControlDog control was seen as a priority issue at the Public Consultation meeting which the Safer Neighbourhoods team held in May. In addition, an Act of Parliament in 2005 gave local authorities powers to deal with irresponsible dog owners. Islington Council have now enacted three orders – the requirement on owners to remove faeces left by their dog, to keep the animal on a lead if asked to and to observe the exclusion zones which are now clearly marked across the Borough. Wardens and animal welfare officers now patrol to enforce these requirements. A rapid response unit (the ‘dog poo crew’) equipped with quad-bikes - I'm not making this up - will be set up to reinforce the exiting teams. The objective at this early stage is to concentrate on education and guidance of offending owners rather than instigate legal action although this is provided for under the law. Special dog bins will not be provided – the Council take the view that dog faeces can be disposed of safely in the normal litter bins. Street cleaners have been instructed that they should remove faeces from roads and pavements. Attacks by dogs on humans or other animals are not regarded as a widespread problem in Canonbury – six only were recorded last year. Again training is seen to be the way forward. For more general information visit www.islington.gov.uk/Environment/animal_welfare/responsible_dog_ownership.asp |