SWINDON'S dog warden has issued a set of recommended New Year resolutions for dog owners.

Animal warden Kay Giblett says dog owners should start the New Year by making sure their pets have a collar and tag and a safe and happy environment.

Miss Giblett said: "Some people may not realise that it is a legal requirement for a dog to have a collar and tag, with the owner's name and address on it. Failure to comply can result in a fine of up to £5,000 and people do get fined."

Microchips, which many dogs now have, are not enough. Miss Giblett said: "The chips won't do. A dog has to have a tag."

Miss Giblett also pointed out that owners have a duty to make sure their pets are not a nuisance to others.

She said: "Dog owners need to make sure they pick up dog mess and they need to ensure their dog is happy in its environment.

"The best way to stop a noisy dog is not to punish it for making noise but to make sure it is a happy, confidant dog that can cope with things in the environment.

"It would be a great start to the New Year if dog owners just realised they need to be a little bit more sensible and realise that not everybody loves dogs."