Overview

The Dog Control Bill aims to improve dog control and welfare in England and Wales by clarifying responsibilities, strengthening controls on aggressive dogs, and introducing new penalties for irresponsible dog ownership. It repeals previous legislation on dangerous dogs.

Description

Responsibilities

The bill defines "responsible for a dog" to include ownership, charge, or having a dog in one's care (including minors in their care). Those responsible for a dog are legally accountable for its actions.

Control of Dogs

The bill prohibits allowing a dog to be aggressive or dangerously out of control, encouraging aggression, breeding or keeping dogs for fighting, and keeping a dog with a history of attacks.

Control Notices

Police and local authorities can issue control notices for dogs exhibiting concerning behavior (before an attack) requiring actions such as muzzling, leading, neutering, microchipping, training, or rehoming.

Prosecution and Penalties

Failure to comply with the bill's provisions is an offense, punishable by control orders, disqualification orders (banning dog ownership), deprivation orders (removing dog custody), destruction orders, fines, or imprisonment. Defenses include provocation, self-defense, service dog status, and attacks on trespassers.

Seizure and Destruction

Police and authorized local authority officers can seize dogs breaching the act. Warrants can be issued to enter premises to seize evidence. Courts may order the destruction of dogs held pre-trial if their welfare is at risk.

Repeals

The bill repeals the Dogs Act 1871, the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, and the Dangerous Dogs (Amendment) Act 1997.

Government Spending

The bill does not provide specific figures on government spending. However, increased enforcement and potential court costs are likely.

Groups Affected

Groups affected include:

• Dog owners: Face increased responsibilities and potential penalties for irresponsible behavior.
• Police and local authorities: Assume increased enforcement duties.
• Animal welfare organizations: May see increased numbers of dogs requiring rehoming.
• Courts: Will handle increased cases related to dog control offences.

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