Framework set for dangerous dogs inquiry
In light of the plans announced by the Government in April to launch a consultation on microchipping and to extend dangerous dogs law to cover private property, EFRACom is holding an inquiry to scrutinise the proposals.
EFRACom, the MP select committee which deals with DEFRA's affairs, will be considering the measures and the response by the Government and dog breeders to the Bateson report.
At the launch of the inquiry, Anne McIntosh, the committee chairman, commented: "Our inquiry will look closely at whether the Government is doing enough to tackle the problem of irresponsible dog owners and to improve the welfare of all dogs, including so-called status dogs. We also want to find out whether enough is being done to improve the health and welfare of dogs bred for sale."
The committee wishes to receive evidence on whether the Government's proposed approaches would deliver the right legal framework, enforcement regime and educational support to reduce irresponsible dog ownership and tackle out-of-control dogs.
It will be looking at whether a fundamental overhaul of dog legislation and its enforcement is required, as well as specifics including microchipping, dog licensing and previous efforts to improve breeding. Submissions will be invited from interested parties.
Concerns about dog welfare linked to breeding approaches will also be addressed, and the Kennel Club has expressed its support for the inquiry.
Caroline Kisko, the Kennel Club's communications director, said: “We welcome Efra’s consideration of the problem of dangerous dogs and the urgent need for new legislation, as well as the topics surrounding health and welfare of dogs bred for sale - both important issues that have huge implications for dog welfare. As the UK’s largest organisation dedicated to the health and welfare of dogs, the Kennel Club will be submitting evidence to the inquiry.”
She added: “The Kennel Club has long been campaigning for an overhaul of current dangerous dog law. Police resources should be freed from seizing particular dogs purely because they are a certain breed, and more time and effort should be spent on penalising the owners of any dog that shows early signs of aggression, in the form of Dog Control Notices. We hope that Efra will take this into account."
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
