We recently read that dangerous dogs are being bred for drug deals and crime by gangs and we will all remember the tragic case in early 2013 of another young person losing their life as a result of a dog attack.

The Middlesex University London study found that young men were using bull mastiffs, pit bulls, akitas and other aggressive dogs as a tool for making money.

What has happened now?

The Government has announced plans to change the laws surrounding dangerous dogs and to close a loophole which currently allows owners of dogs to escape prosecution if the animal attacks someone in a private property.  They plan to take urgent action to protect the public from dangerous dogs.

Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee

The change in law has been supported by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee.  The select committee’s chairwoman, Anne McIntosh, said:

“Eight people, including six children, have died as a result of dog attacks since 2007.  Annual costs to the NHS of treating dog attack injuries are around £3m, and some eight assistance dogs and hundreds of livestock are attacked each month.  Strong measures to prevent dog attacks are conspicuously absent – in particular targeted Dog Control Notices.  The Government must bring together the disparate dog control and breeding legislation into a single, comprehensive Act.”

She said that the proposed amendments fall short of a “comprehensive and effective regime for tackling the increasing problem of out-of-control dogs.”

What are the laws?

• • The Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Bill
  • The Dangerous Dogs Act

What has the British Veterinary Association said?

The President, Peter Jones said:

“We are delighted that this cross-party group of MPs has given such strong support for more preventive measures.  Instead of making more mistakes with hastily made legislation we are asking the Government to think again and reconsider introducing Dog Control Notices.  DCNs have already been introduced in Scotland and have the support of veterinary surgeons, dog welfare organisations, and enforcers, as well as many parliamentarians.”