Irresponsible dog owners face the law

Irresponsible dog owners have been feeling the full force of the law, with fines and costs totalling several hundred pounds handed out by local magistrates over the last few weeks.

The court appearances followed decisive interventions by St Helens Council’s dog wardens after incidents in:

Newton-le-Willows
When a Staffordshire bull terrier-type dog attacked a collie that was with its owner. The owner of the terrier was ordered to keep his dog under control by ensuring it was on a lead and muzzled when in a public place. He was also ordered to attend training classes with his dog and pay the vet’s bills for the other dog.

Rainhill
Involving a Whiston man who was ordered to keep his female German Shepherd on a lead and muzzled in a public place. The animal had attacked a lurcher-type dog in Stoney Lane. The owner was also ordered to pay costs of £100.

Parr
Where the owner of two Jack Russells was ordered to pay a total of £515 after his dogs were seen fouling grassland on Brookland Lane Parr – as well as failing to wear identity tags in a public place.

Councillor Joe De’Asha, Cabinet Member for Environmental Protection said: "This Authority will not shy away from tackling issues caused by irresponsible dog owners in our community. We employ a team of experienced and knowledgeable wardens who patrol our borough and will not hesitate to take action if it is deemed necessary."

Councillor Sue Murphy, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, Safer Communities and Youth added: “These verdicts send a very clear message to irresponsible owners. Residents and responsible dog owners should be able to enjoy our public and open spaces without fear of anti-social behaviour involving dogs which aren’t under control.”