Dog owners reminded about licence requirements
Wed, October 02, 2019
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is reminding dog owners that it is a legal requirement to possess a valid dog licence which must be annually renewed.
Licensing your dog is essential in helping Enforcement Officers reunite stray or lost pets with their owners. If your dog escapes or goes missing and is picked up by a Council Officer, we will always endeavour to reunite you as soon as possible if it is microchipped and licensed.
Licensing also helps to highlight trends in popular breeds, identify potential illegal breeders, and to track down owners of dogs involved in attacks as well as monitor the number of dogs within the Borough.
You can apply for a licence dog online on the Council website (see details below) or in person at the Council offices in Ballycastle, Ballymoney, Coleraine or Limavady. You can also complete and return your application by post. Please provide as much information as possible, including the dog’s name, sex, breed, colour and any distinguishing markings. A standard dog licence costs £12.50, concessionary licence £5, and a block licence £32.
You will qualify for a concessionary licence for your first or only dog if you are over 65 years of age, you are on any income related benefits, or your dog has been sterilised. You may need to provide proof of age, benefit entitlement, or proof of sterilisation from your vets.
A block licence applies where you have 3 or more unsterilised bitches which breed between them less than 3 litters in a 12 month period, where 3 or more dogs are registered with specific clubs or associations, and where 3 or more dogs are used as guard dogs.
Council no longer issue tags with dog licences and pet owners are asked to always keep contact details attached to your dog’s collar on a plate or badge.
It is an offence to keep a dog without having a valid licence, and a Fixed Penalty of £80 may be issued to anyone who fails to comply.
If you would like any further information about responsible dog ownership, or you wish to apply for or renew your dog licence, go to www.causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk/live/health-and-built-environment/licensing/dog-licensing.
Alternatively, Enforcement Officers can be contacted for help and advice by ringing 028 7034 7034