THE public consultation over a proposed dog-ban which has left Ottery pet-owners hot under the collar has begun.

THE public consultation over a proposed dog-ban which has left Ottery pet-owners hot under the collar has begun.

East Devon District Council said that as of Wednesday, December 10, it has started the process of canvassing residents' views on whether to proceed with a total ban on dogs being walked on Winter's Lane Playing Field.

A spokesperson added: "Whilst it knows the town council's stance, EDDC is now keen to seek residents' views on whether a total ban on dogs should be introduced in selected areas in Ottery. We will be placing advertising in the local press, which will invite residents to write or email us with their views, and we will have a dedicated page on our website, setting out the various options and, again, inviting people to let us know what they think."

The consultation will run until January 23, 2009, and EDDC is also seeking feedback on its proposals for dogs to be kept on leads in the Land of Canaan.

The council's Environmental Health team will consider feedback from everyone who responds before any decisions are made.

Information, and an opportunity to comment, is available at www.eastdevon.gov.uk/legal_and_member_services-dog_control_orders .