PLANS to introduce a registration scheme for commercial dog walkers have been praised by pooch lovers.

Canine enthusiasts from all over Swindon have backed the launch of a consultation which could see commercial dog walkers joining a council-run registration scheme requiring them to adhere to a code of conduct when out in public places.

Membership of the scheme is proposed to be voluntary and aims to promote best practice following a number of complaints about uncontrolled dogs in large groups.

Haydon Wick resident Janet Garrett, who runs popular pooch training facility Janet’s Puppy Skool, thought the scheme a very good idea indeed.

Janet, who can usually be spotted with her trusty canine sidekick Mack, said: “I think it’s a great idea. Anything that encourages professionalism in this area is a good thing.

“It would be good for dog walkers’ businesses to be able to say that they have signed up to this. It will make people see that they are good at what they do and can be trusted.”

As a natural dog lover, Janet explained that it can often be a difficult decision knowing who to trust with your beloved puppy, and knowing someone has signed up to such a scheme would go a long way to engendering trust.

There has been a steady increase in commercial dog walking in the town’s parks and open spaces over the last couple of years. Most of these are professionally run without incident, but occasional complaints or queries have been received generally regarding the number of dogs being walked.

Councillor Cathy Martyn, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for housing and public safety, said that although many commercial dog walkers operate in a considerate and professional manner, some do not.

She praised the “invaluable service” that professional dog walkers provide and added: “We have decided to try a less restrictive approach given the low numbers of complaints, and if agreed, we would encourage professional dog walkers to sign up.”

Other dog walkers fully agreed with Janet that the scheme was a positive step forward.

Steph Clements, 38, who lives in the town centre, said: “I think it’s important that the council ensures professional dog walkers are doing things properly.

“Looking after someone’s dog is a huge responsibility and anything we can do to make sure it’s being done properly is good.”

Keith Cook, 55, from Stratton, who owns a Labrador called Spike, agreed.

He said: “It sounds like a good idea to me. I think it would reassure people and I hope dog walkers sign up to it.”