Renewed calls to update dangerous dogs law
"We believe the current laws are inadequate and successful prosecutions are hard to evidence and secure" - Jacqui Cuff, Cats Protection's advocacy manager.
A 'savage' dog attack which left a cat needing to have a leg amputated has sparked renewed calls for updated law on dangerous dogs.
Eighteen-month-old Clive was discovered with appalling injuries by his owner after wandering into a park near his home in May.
After being rushed to the vet, the black and white cat needed to have a leg amputated and extensive surgery to wounds sustained during the attack.
Despite his appalling injuries, Clive is now making a good recovery. However, Cats Protection say his case is not isolated; around 10 cats every month are reported as victims of dog attacks - 80 per cent of which are fatal.
Earlier this year, Cats Protection launched its Manfiesto for Cats, calling for a string of measures to improve the lives of cats in the UK, including updating the Dangerous Dogs Act to allow for prosecution in cases where a dog attacks, injures or kills a cat.
Cats Protection's advocacy manager Jacqui Cuff said that Clive's case shows the appalling injures that can be caused to cats which fall victim to dog attacks.
“Most dog owners are responsible people who ensure their dogs are well trained and controlled, and indeed, many cats and dogs live happily in the same household. But sadly a few owners fail to keep their dogs under control, with potentially devastating outcomes.
“In Clive’s case, the dog owner wasn’t identified and this can often be the case. For this reason, it is clearly important for the emphasis to be on prevention first rather than prosecution.
“We welcome new measures introduced within anti-social behaviour legislation to minimise dog attacks and promote responsible dog ownership. This allows for action to be taken where dogs are known to have caused a problem in their communities - for example, for a dog to be muzzled, kept on a lead or for their owner to attend training.
“Where owners are identified, we believe the current laws are inadequate and successful prosecutions are hard to evidence and secure. We want to see this changed to act as a deterrent for the minority of dog owners who do not keep their pet under control.
“Clearly this is an appalling and worrying situation for society as a whole. Of course it is horrific when an owner loses a much-loved family pet in such a violent way, but it is also terrifying to think that many of these attacks are taking place in public places like parks where young children are present".
To find out more about Cats Protection's Manifesto for Cats visit www.cats.org.uk/manifesto.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
