St Leonards couple charged with having out-of-control dog

Natalie and Anthony Baker, of Beachy Head View, were summonsed to Eastbourne Magistrates Court on June 17 for not keeping their large crossbreed dog named Congo under proper control in public places.

Hastings Borough Council’s Street Wardens have successfully prosecuted the Bakers and a dog control order is now in place. The order states that Congo must be on a lead and muzzled at all times while in public places and must be walked and exercised by an adult who has the ability to restrain the dog either physically or by verbal command.

Mr and Mrs Baker admitted the charges to which they were summonsed. Neither party attended court, choosing instead to write to the court. Costs of £225 were awarded.

Cllr Warren Davies the council’s lead member for the environment, said: “This is excellent news and we hope that it will serve as a very firm warning to other irresponsible dog owners in the town.

“We take issues of this nature very seriously indeed. We will not tolerate those who have no regard for the safety of residents and visitors to our town. This prosecution will ensure that one more dog will be kept under control.

“It’s unacceptable for dog owners not to exercise proper control of their pets - we will always prosecute. We want to celebrate responsible dog owning and I’m pleased to say that the majority of our residents are considerate and think about the impact that their pet has on our fantastic town.”

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