Overview

This bill amends the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953, strengthening measures to protect livestock from dog attacks. Key changes include removing the "close control" exception, increasing penalties, and granting police and authorities greater powers to seize and detain dogs suspected of attacking livestock.

Description

The bill makes several key changes to the 1953 Act:

• Removal of "Close Control" Exception: The bill removes the exception for dogs that were under "close control" when attacking livestock. This means that regardless of control, an attack constitutes an offence.
• Increased Penalties: The bill removes existing limitations on the maximum penalty level for offences under the 1953 Act.
• Enhanced Police and Authority Powers: New powers are granted to police officers and inspectors to seize and detain dogs found on land reasonably believed to have attacked livestock. They can hold the dog to gather evidence. A warrant can be obtained to enter premises to find evidence of the offense, identify the dog's owner, and seize the dog.
• Presumption of Guilt and Notice Requirements: If the prosecution alleges a dog was involved in an attack, it's presumed guilty unless the accused provides sufficient evidence to the contrary, at least 14 days prior to the hearing.
• Veterinary Examination: Authorities are empowered to have seized dogs examined by a veterinary surgeon, to collect evidence.
• Recovery of Expenses: Owners of dogs involved in offences will be liable for the costs of seizure and detention. If an owner can't be found, the justice of the peace may order the dog's sale or destruction. Proceeds from sales will offset expenses.
• Geographical Scope: The bill applies only to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly increase government spending. The costs associated with dog seizure, detention, and veterinary examinations will be recovered from the owners of the dogs involved. The potential for costs associated with the destruction of dogs may exist but no figures are available.

Groups Affected

• Livestock Farmers: Will benefit from increased protection for their animals and potentially see a reduction in livestock losses due to dog attacks.
• Dog Owners: May face greater scrutiny and potentially significant financial penalties if their dogs attack livestock, even if unintentional. Increased risk of having a dog seized and potentially destroyed.
• Police and Local Authorities: Will have increased responsibilities and powers to enforce the Act.
• Veterinary Surgeons: May be involved in examining seized dogs.

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