Bedfordians are being invited to share their views on responsible dog ownership as part of new national research into whether dog licensing could be reintroduced in the UK.
The study, led by the RSPCA, Dogs Trust, and the York Health Economics Consortium, is examining how dog ownership could be made safer and better supported, including whether licensing could help improve welfare and public safety.
Dog licensing views
Researchers are keen to hear from both dog owners and non-owners, and have launched a short, anonymous public survey to gather opinions.
Around one in three UK households owns a dog. While compulsory microchipping was introduced in England, Wales and Scotland in 2016, and earlier in Northern Ireland, there is currently no requirement for owners to hold a licence.
Dog licensing was abolished in Great Britain in 1987, but it remains in place in Northern Ireland and is used in several other countries. Typically, a licence involves registering a dog with an authority and paying a fee.
The research will explore whether a system like this could help improve outcomes for dogs, owners and the wider public.
Take part: You can access the survey on responsible dog ownership through the University of York website.
Responsible dog ownership
Dr Samantha Gaines, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said hearing from the public was crucial.
“We want to hear from as many people as possible to help improve responsible dog ownership, and ensure dog owners as well as those who come into contact with dogs are supported,” she said.
“This study will explore approaches such as dog licensing, so feedback from the public is essential for helping to ensure that any future policies reflect the needs of dog owners and the wider community.”
Alex Findlow, Public Affairs Manager at Dogs Trust, said the research aimed to understand what works best for everyone.
“There are more than 13 million dogs in the UK, and they are much-loved members of our families and communities,” he said.
“It’s vital that we understand how best to support dogs and their owners, as well as non-dog owners who come into contact with dogs.
“By sharing your views, you can help shape the future of dog ownership and the measures that could contribute to better welfare and safer communities.”
The survey is open now and is anonymous. Researchers are encouraging people from all backgrounds, whether or not they own a dog, to take part and have their say.
