Dog ownership in Wales under review
The review will also assess the effectiveness of existing dog control legislation.
RSPCA Cymru is set to lead a review of responsible dog ownership in Wales. It is expected to make recommendations on how to raise awareness of the responsibilities of owning a dog, particularly in areas with high numbers of dog attacks.
Rebecca Evans, the Welsh deputy minister for farming and food, asked the charity to undertake this independent review, which is expected to report in early autumn. The Dogs Trust in Wales will also get involved, as well as vets, local authorities and other interested parties.
The deputy minister said she is particularly interested in recommendations on how to raise awareness of responsible dog ownership among children and young people "as they have a long term role to play in driving up animal welfare standards."
The review will also assess the effectiveness of existing dog control legislation.
Welcoming the opportunity, RSPCA Cymru's head of external affairs Claire Lawson, said: "The welfare of dogs and community safety issues are integral to resolving irresponsible dog ownership.
"This review will provide an important opportunity to build on the strong record we have in Wales in regards to enhancing dog welfare."
With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
