Charges could be imposed to return stray dogs

Owners of stray dogs could be charged £10 for their return.

At this month's sitting of Tynwald, the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture will seek Tynwald’s approval to impose the charge under the Fees and Duties Act 1989.

DEFA staff collect stray dogs during office hours on weekdays, with the Manx SPCA providing the service on behalf of the Department on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings.

It costs between £100 and £140 for a dog to be picked up, kennelled, cared for and returned home. However, owners are only charged £12 per day for their dog’s food and care, plus any vets’ fees.

It’s proposed that from April, an additional £10 charge will be levied to offset the cost of seizing a stray.

If the dog strays again within a year, a charge of £25 will apply, regardless of whether the animal requires kennelling.

DEFA Minister Ronan says it's another step towards encouraging responsible dog ownership.

Stray dogs can be reported by ringing 686 688.