Tandridge dog walkers require a permit to use council land
Professional dog walkers in the Tandridge District, in Surrey, now need a permit to walk dogs on council-owned land.
The permit applies to anyone walking dogs for payment and includes limits on group sizes, proof of liability insurance and adherence to environmental guidelines. These include, cleaning up after dogs, keeping dogs under control, protecting wildlife and respecting others in the park.
The permit, which costs £73, requires professional dog walkers to:
- Follow the council’s code of conduct and government canine legislation;
- Hold a canine first aid certificate and carry a first aid kit while walking;
- Wear a council issued dog walking permit and armband (£14) in council owned parks and open spaces;
- Limit the number of large or strong dogs walked together and use appropriate control equipment such as leads and harnesses;
- Transport dogs safely, displaying a Surrey County Council issued windscreen sticker.
Residents can check if a dog-walking service is licenced or permitted in the council’s online directory of approved businesses.
The council also offers a quick reporting system for concerns about professional dog walkers, dog mess, dog bins, noise or stray dogs.
Leader of the council, Councillor Catherine Sayer, said: “This permit system will help maintain our parks and open spaces while ensuring professional dog walkers operate responsibly.
“We encourage businesses to apply as soon as possible and urge dog owners to make sure they use walkers who have the correct permit or licence.”
Professional dog walkers apply online at www.tandridge.gov.uk/dogs.
