|
|
|
Support for changes to dog laws |
|
|
|
Tuesday, 15 April 2008 |
There is widespread support for a reform of the way dangerous dogs are dealt with, including the introduction of ‘doggy ASBOs’ and changing the law to allow prosecutions when attacks take place on private property, according to Nationalist MSP Alex Neil.
Neil says that the public consultation on his proposed Control of Dogs (Scotland) Bill, which closed on Monday, showed a consensus of opinion among respondents – which included animal welfare organisations, local authorities, dog wardens and members of the public – that the current approach of simply banning certain breeds of dog doesn’t work.
Commenting on the responses, Mr Neil said:
“I am obviously very pleased that there is so much support for my proposed Bill. There are a few technicalities that people have helpfully brought to our attention, and some suggestions for minor improvements, but overall, the reaction to my proposals has been very positive. The current dog legislation – most notably the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act – has not made the public any safer from dangerous dogs. It focuses on a few specific breeds, and leaves owners of other breeds largely to do as they please. It was also baffling that they chose not to make attacks on private property a criminal offence.
“My approach aims to shift focus from the dogs onto the owners, as they should always be responsible for ensuring their dog does not endanger public safety. There is a minority of dog owners out there who are simply not responsible with their dogs, and we need ways to act against them. This is obviously a very encouraging response, and if all goes well, we will hopefully see a change in the law by the end of next year”.
Readers have left 2 comments. 1. Support for changes to dog laws
Anonymous, Unregistered I don't think this will solve the problem, because certain dog owners gain some sort of kudos if their dog attacks someone and enhances their reputation! The only way to solve the problem is to issue all potential owners with a licence for their dog 2. Support for changes to dog laws
Anonymous, Unregistered the best way forward for all dog owners is make it law that all dogs should have a licence and be microchipped. that way,any dog be it a stray ,cruelty case ,genuine lost dog or a dangerous dog it can all be traced back to the owner and the owner can be dealt with accordingly
Related news items:
|
Site news...
Have your say: We have introduced a comments system in our news and magazine article sections, submit your comments for approval. Your comments will feature in the "Your comments" section.
|
|
|
Holyrood news 
