Overview

This bill mandates the annual registration of all dogs in England, requiring owners to pay a fee to their local authority. The collected fees will fund enforcement of dog-related regulations and penalties.

Description

The Dogs (Registration) Bill establishes a nationwide dog registration scheme in England. All dog owners must register their dog annually with their local authority, paying a fee set by the Secretary of State. Registration will last one year and must be renewed annually unless the dog is no longer owned. Regulations will detail circumstances allowing for registration suspension. Local authorities will maintain a dog register containing specific information (as detailed in The Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2014). Failure to register or pay the fee results in a fixed penalty notice. Exemptions, such as for rehoming centers, may be granted. The bill defines "authorized person" and "keeper" according to the Microchipping of Dogs (England) Regulations 2014, and clarifies which local authority levels are included.

Government Spending

The bill is designed to be self-financing. Revenue from registration fees will cover the costs incurred by local authorities in enforcing the Act and other dog-related responsibilities. No additional government funding is anticipated beyond that needed to implement the registration scheme initially.

Groups Affected

• Dog owners: Will be required to register their dogs annually and pay a fee. Failure to comply will result in penalties.
• Local authorities: Will be responsible for administering the registration scheme, maintaining the register, and enforcing related regulations. They will receive the fees to fund this.
• Rehoming centers: May be granted exemptions from registration requirements.
• Enforcement officers: Will be tasked with enforcing the registration scheme and related penalties.

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