Do It Online
Report It
Apply For It
Find It
Pay It
Have Your Say
Search the site
Contact Us
Environmental Health
Lewes District Council
Southover House
Southover Road
Lewes
East Sussex
BN7 1AB
Tel: 01273 484354
ehealth@lewes.gov.uk
Minicom 01273 484488
Find Southover House
On Google Maps
Responsible Dog Owners
There are several points to consider before owning a dog. We advise those thinking about keeping a dog to follow our guide to be responsible.
Before owning a dog, it’s important to consider all the responsibilities that go with being an owner. They are pets that take up a lot of time and possibly money.
Most dogs need to be walked up to 40 minutes a day. There’s also time spent playing and visits to the vets. Bedding must be washed regularly and training for obedience and toilet is a must.
Cost
It is estimated that a medium sized dog will cost £3,000 per year to keep. This includes, food, vet bills, inoculations, flea and worming preparations and poop scoops. Neutering to prevent an unwanted litter should also be considered.
Homes
The size of house is important when deciding the type of breed. Small breeds can live quite happily in a smaller property. Larger breeds such as Rottwielers, Dobermans and German Shepherds will not.
A garden is essential for all types of dog. Freedom to play with its own toys prevents boredom and a safe corner with its own bed and private space is also needed.
A dog will make a mess. The family must be willing to accept accidents and muddy paws and be willing to help teach the dog right from wrong in a controlled and kind
manner.
Identification
Dogs are legally required to carry identification bearing the owner’s name, current address or telephone number. Failure to comply can result in a heavy fine for the owner.
Dogs unable to wear a collar can have a microchip implant as a reliable method of identification. A tiny electronic transponder is injected into the loose skin at the back of the neck. It can be read by a scanner with the owner’s details traced via a central database.
Our dog wardens have scanners and every dog handled by them is automatically scanned. The owners can then be contacted and arrangements made for the return of the dog.
