New guide helps dog owners understand their responsibilities

Member of Parliament for Epping Forest, veterinary surgeon, and Shadow DEFRA Minister of State Dr Neil Hudson MP has backed a new guide designed to help create happier lives for dogs, owners and local communities <i>(Image: Dr Neil Hudson MP)</i>
Member of Parliament for Epping Forest, veterinary surgeon, and Shadow DEFRA Minister of State Dr Neil Hudson MP has backed a new guide designed to help create happier lives for dogs, owners and local communities (Image: Dr Neil Hudson MP)
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A new guide has been created to help dog owners better understand their responsibilities.

Epping Forest MP Dr Neil Hudson, who is also a veterinary surgeon and Shadow DEFRA Minister of State, hosted a drop-in event in Parliament for Dogs Trust for Parliamentarians to learn more about the new Dog Ownership Guide (DOG).

Created by Dogs Trust and the RSPCA, the guide provides a universal definition of "responsible dog ownership". It is designed to help both new and experienced owners develop a clearer and more consistent understanding of what their responsibilities involve.

Dr Hudson said: "It was a pleasure to host Dogs Trust in Parliament for their new Dog Ownership Guide created alongside the RSPCA. Dogs bring enormous joy to folk across Epping Forest, but owning one is also a major responsibility.

"This practical guide gives owners clear and consistent information about what their dogs need, as well as how we can all help dogs, owners and the wider community live safely and happily alongside one another."

The guide is built around five pillars that promote dog wellbeing, strengthen owner relationships, and support safer communities.

Ruairidh Nichols, public affairs manager at Dogs Trust, said: "It is great to see so many MPs supporting the call for responsible dog ownership."

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