The Control of Dogs Order 1992 says that all dogs must wear a collar with the owner’s name and address written on it, or on a disc attached to it, when in a public place. The telephone number of the owners should also be displayed. Any dog seen without a collar in public may be seized by the local authority and treated as a stray. The person in charge of the dog and/or the owner of the dog may be prosecuted and fined.
Although it is not legally required at present, Dogs Trust recommends microchipping your dog.
What should I do if my dog strays?
Immediately contact your local Dog Warden (through the Environmental Health Department at your local council) and the local police station. The Environmental Protection Act 1999 allows for your dog to be seized and sold, rehomed or destroyed if unclaimed after a seven day period.