Inquiry launched into dangerous dog proposals
A press conference is being held at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home today to outline the details of an inquiry launched by the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee into Government plans to tackle irresponsible dog ownership and breeding.
EFRACom has launched the investigation following the announcement of Government plans in April to extend dangerous dogs law to cover private property and to launch a consultation on microchipping.
On 15th May, the Sentencing Council for England and Wales published updated guidance on factors that should influence the punishment for a dog attack conviction, which are expected to be implemented towards the end of August.
A council spokesperson commented: "The new guidelines will mean more offenders will face jail sentences, more will get community orders and fewer will receive discharges."
These guidelines came as a result of a consultation launched last year, which focused on whether minimum sentencing for dog attacks should be increased - as well as covering possession of animals banned under Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act and cases where a potentially dangerous dog is brought into a private place.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
