RSPCA calls for 'dog walking orders' to be relaxed during lockdown
They say it will help pet owners to follow lockdown rules more easily
The RSPCA is calling on local councils to consider easing local rules on where dogs can and can't be walked during the latest coronavirus lockdown.
Public Space Protection Orders are in force in many areas around the county, placing restrictions on where owners can walk their pets.
The Southwater-based animal rescue charity has expressed concerns that this can restrict suitable spots for owners to take their pets in some local communities, which may lead them into areas which present a greater risk of spreading Covid-19.
As England enters another national lockdown, and with Wales already under national Tier 4 restrictions, the RSPCA has renewed its calls for councils to explore a temporary relaxation of PSPOs related to dog walking to help stop unnecessary travel.
The charity has said would enable dog walkers to exercise within their immediate communities and comply with lockdown measures.
Dr Samantha Gaines, head of the RSPCA’s companion animals department, said:
"With England and Wales now both in national lockdowns, there are clear restrictions in place concerning exercise, which will impact many dog walkers.
“In England, exercise is again limited to once per day - and should not be done outside the local area; while in Wales, while exercise is unlimited, this must start and begin at someone's home.
“Many local authorities have previously introduced Public Spaces Protection Orders that stop dogs being walked in certain areas - including some sports pitches, green areas and fields. In some areas, there are concerns this restricts the availability of suitable dog walking spots.
“If dog owners do not have adequate space to exercise their dogs near their homes, they may make journeys beyond their immediate communities and unwittingly breach Covid-19 rules, aimed to stop the spread of this awful disease.
"We’re calling on local authorities to be flexible at this time and temporarily relax PSPOs where it is safe and appropriate to do so, to help keep people local and protect dog welfare.”
WILTSHIRE COUNCIL DOG WALKING RULES
Here are the Public Space Protection Orders for Dog Control in Wiltshire:
* The person in charge of a dog to clean up after it has defecated on any area of land within Wiltshire which is open to the air, including covered land which is open to the air on at least one side and to which the public are entitled to have access with or without payment.
* It is an offence for a person in charge of a dog to allow it to enter a children's play area which is enclosed by a fence, wall or similar structure.
* The person in charge of a dog to put it on a lead of no more than 2 metres in length when required to do by an authorised officer of Wiltshire Council.
* Dog walkers in the vicinity of Box Recreation Ground to keep their dogs on a lead at all times.
There are certain exemptions in the Orders for assistance dogs such as guide dogs for the blind and hearing dogs for the deaf.
SOCIAL DISTANCING
The RSPCA has also advised the public to keep dogs on leads at this time - to help ensure social distancing and avoid owners having to come into close contact with one another should they have to go and retrieve their dog.
Dog owners have been reminded that a friend, relative or someone in the local community may be able to help a vulnerable person, or someone who is self-isolating, with their dog walking - but to closely follow guidance on handover protocols and safety from the Canine and Feline Sector Group (CFSG).
Samantha Gaines, head of the RSPCA’s companion animals department, added:
"It's going to be a difficult period for dog owners, and we'd urge them to research ways to help keep their pets entertained, stimulated and active when inside the home.
“We all must do our bit to stop coronavirus - and keeping dogs on leads at this time can help ensure social distancing, and will avoid owners unnecessarily coming into contact with one another should a pet need to be retrieved."
“Many people also face the prospect of self-isolating, or shielding, and it's important people remember that someone else in your local community - whether a family, friend or professional dog walkers - may be able to walk your dog, if they're following handover protocols and advice from groups like CFSG and AWNW."
“After almost ten months of restrictions already, we know this is a tough time and we expect to be inundated with questions from concerned pet owners - so we urge people to spread the word and share on the RSPCA website."
“RSPCA officers will continue on the frontline responding to emergencies during this unprecedented time, and members of the public can support this work and help give a lifeline to animals online."