Owners across the UK face being hit with a fine for not adding a significant detail to their dog's collar.
It is illegal for a dog to be in a public place or on a highway without a collar that includes the name and address of the owner attached using a plate, badge or tag. Even dogs who are microchipped must have these details.
Experts have warned people could also be at risk of having their dog seized and could even face a prison sentence if they don't adhere to these rules.
With harnesses becoming increasingly popular these days, owners are being reminded not to forget to put a tag on them while out walking.
The Control of Dogs Order 1992 for Scotland and England clearly states that anyone responsible for causing or permitting a dog on a highway or public place without a collar will be found guilty of an offence against the Animal Health Act 1981. Although not putting a collar on your dog may seem harmless to some, the offence can be punishable with an eye-watering fine of £2000 and a six month custodial sentence.
As well as this, a dog without a collar can be treated as a stray under section 3 of the Dogs Act 1906 or section 149 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. This could mean the animal is seized by the authorities.
Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, told the ECHO : “With everyone feeling the financial pinch, the last thing pet owners need is a hefty fine for forgetting something so simple as popping the collar on their dog.
“The law may seem harsh, and having your pet seized seems unthinkable, but the rules are in place for good reason. It’s also essential to ensure that details are up to date on the collar and to be aware of the risks of not having the correct information.
“We also recommend that dog owners include their phone numbers on the collar in case of an emergency so that the pet can be safely returned quickly.”
However, whether an owner decides to include a phone number on the tag is optional. It is also not a legal requirement to put your pet's name on the tag.
In fact, many pet organisations advise against owners including their dogs name on the tag as it could put them at higher risk of being stolen.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our newsletter here.
