Tameside Introduces Long Dog Lead Ban

Thu, 10 Jun 2010

Tameside council in Greater Manchester has introduced a ban on long dog leads in a bid to curb the problem of dog fouling. Dog owners may not keep their pets on leads longer than two metres in the area’s parks and open spaces in which dogs must be kept on leads. The council believes that pet owners are more likely to clear up dog mess if their pets are kept on a short lead, with those failing to adhere to the rules susceptible to a fine of up to £1,000.

Dog owners and animal charities have branded the move ‘ridiculous’, with many retractable leads varying from five metres to eight metres in length. Dog owners have also questioned how park wardens will be able to enforce the ban, while the Kennel Club has said the rules are unnecessary. Tameside council have pointed out that there are a vast number of open spaces near to the areas in which the dog lead rule applies.

Tameside council is the first local authority in Greater Manchester to introduce the rule, which they hope will make open spaces ‘more enjoyable’. Situated just outside of Greater Manchester, Rossendale introduced a similar rule last year.

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