JSPCA PRESS RELEASE

September 2004  

CHANGES TO DOGS (JERSEY) LAW ARE DISCUSSED

The Parish constables are to consider changing the Dogs (Jersey) Law to increase the cost of a dog license from £2 to £5.  Also to be suggested and discussed are the rise in the fine for failing to obtain a dog license from £4 to a proposed £50 and the requirement for owners to attach identification to their animals’ collars. The aim of these proposals is to reduce the number of stray dogs and to encourage responsible dog ownership.

Unfortunately, many Jersey dog owners currently do not realise that it is a legal requirement to have a license for your dog.

Under the present Dogs Law, stray dogs are the responsibility of the Parish Constables.  Although, the JSPCA Animals’ Shelter had taken on the responsibility on behalf of the Constables.  However, since the Homes Affairs Committee has cut the grant to the JSPCA Animals’ Shelter for looking after and collecting the stray dogs, meaning that the Charity can no longer afford to offer the service, the Constables are also to consider other avenues for approaching their responsibility of managing the stray dogs.

ENDS