Let's talk about dogs

Overview

Have your say on how we can reduce dog related anti-social (ASB) behaviour within Southwark.

In order to reduce dog related ASB and encourage responsible dog ownership Southwark Council would like to introduce a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) to include the following:

• For those responsible for a dog(s) to pick up and dispose of any dog mess
• To exclude dogs from children’s play areas
• To keep dogs on leads at all times within cemeteries and burial grounds
• To put a dog on a lead when instructed to do so by an authorised officer
• To limit the number of dogs under the control of one owner (maximum of four) – replacing the current Dog Control Order provision

The majority of dog owners and walkers in Southwark behave responsibly, but dog related antisocial behaviour is still a concern for Southwark residents. 

Please complete the questionnaire by 5^th June 2017, to share your views on our proposals and your views on extending controls in order to help us deal with dog related ASB.

Why your views matter

What is a Public Space Protection Order?

Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) were introduced under the Anti-Social Behaviour Crime and Policing Act 2014. These orders allow us to impose conditions on the use of a particular area that will help us to deal with a nuisance or problem that is detrimental to the local community’s quality of life.

What happens if someone doesn’t comply to requirements of a PSPO?

Breach of a PSPO is a criminal offence is subject to a level 3 fine on prosecution, which is a maximum of £1000.

A breach occurs when a person without reasonable excuse;

• does anything that the person is prohibited from doing by a PSPO
• fails to comply with a requirement of a PSPO

A Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) can be issued, which discharges liability to conviction for the offence, unless unpaid. The FPN can be issued by a police officer or authorised council officer up to a maximum value of £100.          

Why introduce a PSPO?

The majority of dog owners and walkers in Southwark behave responsibly, but dog related anti-social behaviour is still a concern for Southwark residents and is one of the greatest sources of complaints from communities received by the Community Warden’s Service.  Residents have reported being attacked and frightened by ‘packs of dogs’ , dogs knocking over children, disrupting funeral services and attacks on animals within Southwark’s Cemeteries and parks and open spaces. 

Dog mess is unpleasant which, if not picked up, can pose a health risk from Toxocariasis. This disease is caused by coming into contact with the dog mess of dogs that haven’t been properly wormed.  Symptoms of Toxocariasis can include fever, headaches, a cough and more rarely, seizures and blurred vision which can lead to blindness if not treated.

Introduction of a PSPO for dog related ASB will mean that officers can take enforcement action against dog owners who behave irresponsibly.