Overview

This bill aims to improve dog control in England and Wales by introducing stricter rules on dog ownership, giving authorities more power to issue control notices, and repealing previous dog control legislation. It focuses on preventing dangerous dogs from harming people or other animals and improving dog identification.

Description

Offences and Penalties

The bill outlines new offences, including allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control, encouraging aggression, or allowing an attack without reasonable cause. An aggravated offence is defined when a person is injured. Penalties range from fines to imprisonment (up to two years for aggravated offences) and may include disqualification from owning dogs.

Dog Control Notices

Authorised officers (police, local authorities, etc.) can issue dog control notices if a dog is deemed out of control. These notices can mandate microchipping, muzzling, keeping the dog on a lead, attending training courses, or other measures to ensure control. Owners can appeal these notices.

Database Requirements

The bill requires a national database to register microchipped dogs, containing owner information, dog details and microchip number. The database operator must ensure data accuracy and provide access to authorised personnel.

Repeal of Existing Legislation

The bill repeals the Dogs Act 1871, Dangerous Dogs Act 1989, Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, and Dangerous Dogs (Amendment) Act 1997.

Seizure and Destruction

The bill grants powers to seize and destroy dogs in certain circumstances, such as non-compliance with control notices or if the court deems it necessary for welfare reasons. Owners can appeal destruction orders.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't explicitly state the cost, but it will likely incur costs for implementing the new database and training authorised officers. Additional costs might arise from enforcement and potential legal challenges. No figures are available from the provided text.

Groups Affected

• Dog Owners: Potentially affected by stricter regulations, control notices, fines, and potential loss of their dogs.
• Local Authorities: Responsible for enforcing the new laws, managing the database, and issuing and monitoring control notices. Increased workload and associated costs.
• Police: Involved in enforcing the bill and may be responsible for issuing control notices.
• Authorized Officers: New responsibilities and training requirements.
• Members of the Public: Increased safety due to better control measures; potential inconvenience if restrictions affect dog walking areas.
• Animal Shelters and Rescuers: May receive more dogs seized under the act.

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