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Dog Advice Surgery Beethoven Centre Third Avenue W10
Monday 4th November 2013

First Dog Surgery in Queens Park Westminster opened this monday - giving advice on neutering/spaying, getting a new dog and all aspects of being a responsible 'dog owner'.
This Dog Surgery will be fortnightly and between 2pm and 3.30pm and FREE to all members of Queens Park Ward and Harrow Road Ward. Also non dog owners are welcome to voice their views both negative and positive on how 'dog owners' and their dogs affect their enjoyment of public spaces and environmental issues regarding dogs mess left on the streets of both Westminster wards.

I think it is important to have someone and somewhere to go to seek advice regarding dogs especially when living in a multi culture community where sometimes the smallest dog can seem to be intimidating if not under proper control.  Also there are new laws regarding dog legislation being updated on a regular basis especially for 'bull breeds' and owners should be kept informed of these laws and advised on the Dog Control Act.

In Westminster wards it is against the law to have your dog not on a leash if in a public place that is not an 'assigned dog area' -  a fine can be imposed for this and also for not picking up after your dog - these fines can be issued by a dog warden - an environmental warden and a police officer.  Also if your dog is reported or seen to be acting in an antisocial manner or left unattended in a public place - it can be siezed and if it is a 'bull breed type' can be taken under the BSL and kept in a unknown location to be assessed.

BSL is a law based on looking at the Breed of a certain dog (ie bull breeds) rather than the behaviour of your dog - your dog does not have to commit a crime to be seized - this law is based on 'type' - a bit like racial profiling - it judges the breed NOT the deed. Information about this law and the Dangerous dog act is given out at my dog surgery.  Also if in the event your dog is seized it is IMPERATIVE you do not SIGN ANYTHING you can contact a lawyer from Wheldons Law or contact ddawatch@gmail.com or helpline numbers 0844 844 2990 or 0844 844 0802 or emergency 0794 1020 754

You also might need advice on basic puppy training or you have just adopted a rescue dog from the local shelter @mayhewanimalhome or alldogsmatteruk - also any local microchipping events or dog classes in the area information will be given out to all dog owners.

So whatever your 'enquiry' is please come along and visit www.canineculture.co.uk for a friendly chat and a cup of coffee!!