Concerns Raised at Dog License Fee Increase

Thu, 08 Oct 2009

Ian Paisley Jnr has warned of a potential increase in the number of abandoned dogs if new plans are approved. Proposals are being released for consultation next month that would see the price of a dog license increase from £5 to £50, though Mr Paisley – chair of the Stormont Agriculture Committee – claims to have received a large volume of calls from dog owners voicing their concerns at the plans.

Mr Paisley warned that some pet owners would be unable or unwilling to pay the charges, and called for special measures for senior citizens who owned animals. The plans are scheduled to be introduced in June 2010.

Also under consideration is a new Dog Control Order which would force owners to microchip their pets at a cost of between £20-£30. There have been calls from vets and animal charities such as the RSPCA to make the microchipping of animals compulsory, as it makes the process of reuniting abandoned or lost animals with their owners much easier.

Dog on dog attacks would also be made an offence, with some dogs subject to regulations stating they must be kept on a lead at all times in public places.

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