The changes are being introduced by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARDNI) as part of a review of dog control legislation in Northern Ireland designed to promote responsible dog ownership.

There are concessions for those over 65 who will be able to licence a single dog for free, with additional dogs costing £5 per dog. Those on income related benefits will also pay £5. There will also be a reduced fee of £5 for owners of dogs that have been neutered.

Regardless of which licence fee category you fall under, all dog owners are required to complete a licence registration form so the Council can issue a dog licence tag.

Other changes include the requirement for dogs to be micro-chipped from April 2012 and an increase in fixed penalty fines up to £80 for offences such as straying and failing to have a valid dog licence.

The Council will be contacting holders of expired licences advising them to renew their dog’s licence before the new fees are applied.

According to the Council’s Environmental Health Service the increased fees reflect the high cost of providing a dog control service. This is made more costly by the actions of irresponsible dog owners through enforcement and cleansing expenses.

The introduction of increased licence and fixed penalty fees is expected to act as a reminder to dog owners of the legal responsibilities associated with dog ownership.

Additional information on the changes to the Dogs Order can be found on the Council’s website www.downdc.gov.uk or telephone 028 4461 0800.