Dog control Public Spaces Protection Order

We asked for the public's views on a new Dog Control Public Spaces Protection Order.  The Order would last for three years and apply to the whole of the Oxford City local authority area. 

The Order would create the following offences:

1. A person must put their dog on a lead if required to do so by an authorised officer.
2. A person may not be in charge of any more than four dogs in a public place.
3. A person in charge of a dog must pick up their dog’s faeces.
4. A person in charge of a dog must not let it enter a children’s play park.

The Order would not apply to private land and there were exemptions for assistance dogs.

• Over 150 people responded to the survey with:
• • 85% of respondents disagree with allowing dogs into children’s play parks. 
  • 92% of respondents felt that owners should pick up their dog mess anywhere in the city.
  • 69% of respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement that dog owners should not be restricted on the number of dogs under their control at any one time.
  • 85% of respondents said that owners should put their dog on a lead if asked by a Council or Police Officer.
  • 77% of respondents agreed that dogs should be kept on leads at all times in the city centre.

Oxford City Council's Cabinet met on the 13th and approved the Order.  Council Officers, the police and other approved persons can enforce the Order.