Dangerous Dogs

Under the current Dangerous Dogs Act if the Secretary of State believes that any type of dog presents "a serious danger to the public" he may make orders requiring that such types of dog

a) shall be muzzled and kept on a lead when in a public place, and/or

b) shall not be abandoned nor allowed to stray.

Before making such an order, the Secretary of State is obliged to consult with "such persons or bodies as appear to him to have relevant knowledge or experience, including a body concerned with animal welfare, a body concerned with veterinary science and practice and a body concerned with breeds of dogs".

Which is all well and good.

But under the current law..

• A breed of dog needs to have committed 'an offence' before it would be considered to be added to list of dangerous dog breeds.
• All parties (above) need to agree that this breed of dog be added to the Dangerous Dogs Act.
• What happens to cross-breeds? When is a breed not a breed?

I believe that ALL dogs should either be on a lead or wearing a muzzle when out in public places. This would eleminate any argument about type of breed.

This would make the parks a safer place for responsible dog owners, parents with small children.. in fact, the parks would become a safer place for everybody!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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