Responsible Dog Ownership
Eastling Parish Council
Wednesday, 19 August 2026
Responsible Dog Ownership Guide
Keeping Dogs Safe, Healthy and Under Control
Owning a dog is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with legal and moral responsibilities. Responsible dog ownership helps keep your pet, your family, and the wider community safe.
Responsible Dog Ownership
Ensure your dog is microchipped and that your contact details are up to date.
Provide adequate food, water, shelter, exercise, and veterinary care.
Keep your dog under control in public and ensure it is suitably trained and socialised.
Always clean up after your dog and dispose of waste responsibly.
Respect local dog control measures, including areas where dogs must be kept on leads.
Ensure your property is secure to prevent your dog from escaping.
What to Do if You Find a Stray Dog
If you find a dog wandering without an owner:
During Local Authority Hours- 01795 417850
Contact your local council's stray dog service. Councils have a legal responsibility for dealing with stray dogs.
Out of Hours
If the dog appears injured, distressed, aggressive, or poses an immediate risk to road users or the public, contact the police using:
999 in an emergency.
101 for non-emergencies.
If Safe to Do So
Check for a collar and identification tag.
Take the dog to a local vet who may be able to scan it for a microchip.
Avoid putting yourself at risk by approaching an aggressive or frightened dog.
Dog-Related Offences
Dog Dangerously Out of Control
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, it is an offence if a dog is dangerously out of control in:
- Public places.
- Private places where the dog has no right to be.
- A dog may be considered dangerously out of control if:
- It injures a person.
- It causes someone to reasonably fear they may be injured.
Owners can face:
- Criminal prosecution.
- Fines.
- Court-imposed controls.
- Disqualification from owning dogs.
- In serious cases, imprisonment.
Dog Attacks on Assistance Dogs
An attack on a guide dog, assistance dog or service animal may also result in criminal offences being investigated.
Livestock Worrying
It is an offence for a dog to attack, chase, or otherwise worry livestock.
This includes:
- Sheep
- Cattle
- Horses
- Goats
- Pigs
Dog owners should:
- Keep dogs on leads near livestock.
- Follow countryside guidance and local signage.
Dogs Causing Road Traffic Hazards
Owners may commit offences where a dog:
- Strays onto a road and causes danger.
- Is not properly restrained within a vehicle.
Fouling Offences
Failing to clean up after a dog in designated public places may result in fixed penalty notices or prosecution by the local authority.
If You Are Concerned About a Dangerous Dog
Report incidents where:
- A dog has bitten or injured someone.
- A dog has aggressively chased people.
- A dog is repeatedly escaping and causing danger.
- A dog owner is encouraging aggressive behaviour.
Contact:
999 if there is an immediate threat to life or serious injury.
101 for non-emergency concerns.
Report online through your local police force website where available.
Keeping Everyone Safe
Most dogs are friendly and well cared for. By being a responsible owner and understanding your legal responsibilities, you can help ensure that dogs remain a positive part of our communities.
Remember: A well-trained, well-controlled dog is a safe and happy dog.
Contact Information
Wendy Licence
- 01622 739324
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Eastling, Faversham, Kent