Council secures dog control order following investigation

A Morecambe man has been made the subject of a dog control order following a serious dog attack.

Lee Coulton, of Clarendon Road, was taken to court by Lancaster City Council after an incident involving his dog in October last year.

Coulton had allowed his male pocket bully‑type dog, named Solo, to be in a public place while off a lead and out of control. As a result, the dog attacked another dog.

The council’s Animal Welfare Team was made aware of the incident and launched a formal investigation, following which it initiated court proceedings.

At court, Coulton was made the subject of a control order aimed at managing the dog’s behaviour and reducing the risk of further incidents.

The terms of the order require the dog to be kept under proper control at all times. While in a public place, the dog must be muzzled and held on a short lead no longer than one metre.

Coulton must also arrange for the dog to be neutered and he was ordered to pay the council’s costs of £250.

Councillor Sally Maddocks, Cabinet member with responsibility for enforcement, said: “This was a serious incident and our Animal Welfare team carried out a thorough investigation into the circumstances.

“The court’s order reflects the importance of keeping dogs under proper control at all times and the measures imposed are designed to reduce the risk of further incidents.

“It is vital that dog owners take their responsibilities seriously and while most do, where someone fails to act we are prepared to take the necessary steps through the courts.”

Incidents involving dog‑on‑dog attacks can be reported to the council’s Animal Welfare Inspectors by emailing dogwardens@lancaster.gov.uk or by calling 01524 582000.

Any incident where a dog attacks a person must be reported to the police for investigation.

 

Last updated: 05 May 2026