Battersea backs MP’s call to tackle irresponsible dog ownership
This week Bray, the Conservative MP for Ealing Central and Acton, who secured a debate on the issue of dangerous dogs at the House of Commons last July, insisted "immediate action must be taken to reassure the public that we are targeting irresponsible dog owners," and cited recent disturbing incidents in her London borough.
She proposed tightening up tenancy agreements to better control dogs on housing estates and also called for court orders banning people from controlling a dog in a public place, if they have been found guilty of violent crimes.
Claire Horton, Chief Executive of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home said: “Battersea welcomes Angie Bray's constructive approach to issues so close to our heart. We support her efforts to help prevent dogs from being used as ‘status’ symbols in anti-social and criminal activities.
“We are often left to deal with the consequences of such irresponsible ownership and that means dogs arrive at the Home mistreated, abandoned or unwanted.”
Battersea is working closely with Local Authorities on all dog control problems and in August supported London’s Deputy Mayor for Policing, Kit Malthouse, at the launch of his public petition to tackle irresponsible owners who use dogs to intimidate members of the public.
The Home also works closely in partnership with the London Borough of Ealing, Angie Bray's local council, in seeking to change tenancy agreements to combat such irresponsible ownership and the breeding and sale of dogs from council properties.
The animal rescue charity fully supports action against people who persistently use dogs to intimidate the public and other pets in their local communities.
Claire Horton continued: “People who misuse dogs in this way have a really negative impact on their communities. Battersea is already working closely with Angie Bray on these issues and we are meeting with her later this month to discuss how we can help ensure more responsible dog ownership across the capital.”
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.
