Dog control report is out
The government has published its response to the EFRACom report on dog control and welfare. The Dogs Trust has criticised the response as "piecemeal" and "discouraging".
In February, the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee (EFRACom) criticised the government's inaction on certain issues of dog control and welfare.
Using recommendations from veterinary organisations including the BVA and BSAVA, the committee produced a report calling for various measures to be implemented to address the problems surrounding dangerous dogs and welfare concerns relating to breeding.
The government's response to the recommendations was published on the parliamentary website on 17 April. EFRACom suggestions to receive support from the government included publicising puppy contracts and developing a Code of Practice for websites selling puppies.
The response also declares the government's intention to amend the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, to explicitly state that attacks on assistance dogs are an offence. Amendments to the act were already made on 9 April - as recommended by EFRACom - to prevent householders being prosecuted if their dog attacks a trespasser.
It was however stated that Dog Control Notices would not be implemented by the government. The Dogs Trust said they are "particularly concerned" about this, and have "grave concerns" over the government's suggestion of using "generic anti-social behaviour measures".
The charity, who have campaigned for a complete overhaul of the Dangerous Dogs Act, believe in a consolidation of dog legislation to provide better protection for dogs, owners and the general public.
In a press release following the government response, the Dogs Trust said "the government's unwillingness to take this approach is very discouraging."
Whilst praising the government for its proposal to introduce compulsory microchipping, and its work in dealing with online pet sales, the charity said: "yesterday's response highlights the need for greater action to be taken in order to tackle the problems of dog control and welfare in this country."
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.
