TWO leading animal welfare charities are calling on the public to help define what responsible dog ownership really means.
The RSPCA and Dogs Trust have launched a national consultation to gather views from both dog owners and non-owners as the UK’s dog population reaches a record high.
In Yorkshire and the Humber, an estimated 1.2 million dogs now share homes with residents, making the topic especially relevant to daily life in the region.
Owen Sharp, chief executive of Dogs Trust, said: "There are more dogs in the UK than ever before, and with so many now sharing our everyday spaces with us, it’s important that there is a consistent understanding of what it means to be a responsible dog owner.
"Responsible dog ownership benefits everyone, not just those with dogs, because safer, well cared for dogs help create safer communities.
"However, there is a clear gap between what owners perceive as responsible dog ownership and what people are experiencing, so we want to work to bridge the gap.
"We’re asking the public to help shape the future of responsible dog ownership in the UK, so whether you’re a dog owner or not, we want to hear what responsible dog ownership means to you."
The consultation comes alongside new research conducted by YouGov on behalf of Dogs Trust and the RSPCA.
The survey found that while 96 per cent of dog owners believe they are responsible, 86 per cent of the wider public have encountered issues with irresponsible dog ownership.
Common complaints include owners neglecting to pick up dog waste, dogs jumping up on people without permission and dogs being off-lead in restricted areas.
Dr Samantha Gaines, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: "Owning a dog can be one of life’s greatest joys, and being a responsible owner is an essential part of that experience.
"Dogs are the nation's most popular pet.
"Understanding what responsible dog ownership is and what that looks like is integral to keeping dogs and communities safe and happy.
"This consultation will be invaluable in building a shared understanding of what responsible ownership looks like – from devoted dog owners to those who regularly interact with dogs, and everyone in between – helping us make a positive difference to dog welfare and community safety."
The consultation is open to the public and can be accessed at www.dogstrust.org.uk/about-us/what-we-do/research/responsible-dog-ownership.
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