The Importance of Dog Tags and Identification in the UK: Understanding Legal Requirements and the Law

Why your dogs must have id tags on whilst using our services

Introduction:

As responsible dog owners, it's vital to prioritize the safety and well-being of our furry friends. One crucial aspect of pet care is ensuring that our dogs can be easily identified if they ever go missing. In the United Kingdom, legislation mandates the use of dog tags or identification, providing a legal framework to safeguard our beloved canines. In this blog post, we'll delve into the legal requirements and laws surrounding dog tags and identification in the UK.

1. The Control of Dogs Order 1992:

The Control of Dogs Order 1992 is the primary legislation governing dog identification in the UK. Under this law, it is a legal requirement for every dog in a public place to wear a collar with a tag that includes specific information. Failure to comply with this regulation can result in fines and penalties.

2. The Information Required on Dog Tags:

According to the Control of Dogs Order 1992, dog tags must contain the following information:

a. Owner's Name: The owner's full name or the family name at the very least should be engraved on the tag. This helps identify the dog's rightful owner and facilitates a quick reunion in case of separation.

b. Address: The owner's address, including the house number or name, street, town, and postcode, should be clearly displayed on the tag. This information is crucial for reuniting lost dogs with their owners.

c. Telephone Number: It is strongly recommended to include a contact number on the dog tag. Providing a reachable telephone number greatly increases the chances of a prompt reunion if your dog goes missing.

3. Exemptions and Exceptions:

While most dogs in the UK need to wear dog tags, certain exceptions apply. Dogs used by the armed forces, the police, or some customs officers are exempt from wearing tags while on duty. Additionally, dogs registered with the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association are also exempt.

4. Microchipping as an Additional Safety Measure and now a legal requirement :

In addition to wearing an identification tag, microchipping your dog is another essential measure for their safety and identification. Microchips are tiny electronic devices implanted under a dog's skin, carrying a unique identification number. This ID number is linked to the owner's contact details in a centralized database. Microchipping provides a permanent means of identification and greatly increases the chances of reuniting lost or stolen dogs with their owners.

5. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Failure to comply with the legal requirement of dog identification in the UK can result in fines of up to £5,000. It is important to note that local authorities, such as dog wardens or animal control officers, have the authority to enforce these regulations. It is also now part of our boarding license that all dogs must at all times be wearing a dog tag with the correct information on it.

Conclusion:

Dog tags and identification play a vital role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our four-legged companions. By adhering to the legal requirements set forth by the Control of Dogs Order 1992, we can significantly increase the chances of reuniting with our dogs if they ever go missing. Remember to keep your dog's tags up to date and consider microchipping as an additional safety measure. Let's collectively work towards creating a safer environment for our beloved canines in the UK.

JANUARY 19, 2018