22-03-2010 Defra Consultation on The Dangerous Dogs Act (1991)

As a response to growing public concerns regarding the increasing number of serious dog attacks, the government has proposed a revision/extension of the Dangerous Dogs Act (DDA) 1991. The main changes include making it compulsory for all dogs to be covered by third-party insurance in case of attack and to be micro-chipped, as well as an introduction of Dog Control Notices, or “Dogbos”.  The micro chipping would make it easier to trace the owners and measures in general aim at more responsible dog ownership.

Animals Count believes that revision of the law, although intended to protect the public rather than to improve animal welfare, is a step in the right direction. The current legislation, we believe, was passed hastily and is largely ineffective. To decrease the number of attacks it is the irresponsible owners of many “status dogs” who need to be targeted, along with the education of the public. Most dogs bite out of fear rather than born aggression, or are trained to attack by their owners, as we recently saw in the media.

Animals Count’s views on the DDA and related dog issues can be found here.

Defra are running a consultation on the revision of the current legislation through 01.06.2010.  Details of the consultation can be found on: http://www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/dangerous-dogs/index.htm

Responses can be sent by email: animalwelfareconsultations@defra.gsi.gov.uk

or by completing the online survey at:

www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/dangerous-dogs/index.htm