COVENTRY MESSAGE BOARD

Posted: **Wed Dec 15, 2010 4:32 pm**

Plans to restrict dogs in part of Warwickshire are too draconian and could permanently threaten the rights of pet owners, a group has warned.

KC Dog, the Kennel Club's campaign arm, said it was concerned over Warwick District Council's dog control order plans.

Caroline Kisko said: "If passed, any fenced park, sporting, recreational or educational facility could be designated a 'dog exclusion zone' at any given point in the future."

A public consultation is under way.

Warwick District Council, which has been contacted for a response, has given residents until 26 January to comment on its plans.

The proposals include orders that dogs must be on a lead at all times in areas including Jephson Gardens and Mill Gardens, in Leamington Spa, and at Warwick Racecourse.

'Under permanent threat'

KC Dog is particularly concerned about an order which could allow fenced children's areas, recreational and sporting areas to be designated 'dog exclusion zones'.

Ms Kisko said: "Dog control orders are becoming more common as councils attempt to find ways to control dog fouling and rein in irresponsible dog owners.

"Unfortunately this often means responsible dog owners are also penalised and have to suffer restrictions."

She said the proposals gave Warwick Council "powers to restrict dog walkers as and when they see fit, without any further consultation".

Ms Kisko added: "Dog access will therefore be under permanent threat, with the areas available for essential off-lead exercise also at risk."

The group urged people to make their views known in the public consultation.

Posted: **Wed Dec 15, 2010 4:55 pm**

As a dog owner, I totally support the council.

I don't let my dog foul in areas that others use, she's trained not to defecate whilst out. (It wasn't hard). I hate treading in dog mess, and I can understand that others don't like it much either, especially children's parents. Kids get excited and don't always look where they're treading, but why should they in a play area?

As my dog is large (Alsatian) I wouldn't consider letting her run free. She's always on the lead unless I'm along the canal path and can see clearly ahead that there's nobody about. Other people don't share my liking of dogs, why should they be subject to a big dog running up to them and sniffing them? As regards street walking, to let her walk behind me (which she happily would) isn't an option. What if she decided to run off across the road, caused an accident etc.?

Unfortunately, the irresponsible owners are yet again ruining things for the responsible ones, which is why the council feel the need to introduce legislation like this. People need to understand that with dog ownership comes responsibility.

(Rant over :oops:

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COVENTRY MESSAGE BOARD

Dog owner rule plans for Warwick 'too strict'

Dog owner rule plans for Warwick 'too strict'

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