Dog owners who allow their dog to attack people or assistance dogs face longer prison sentences, the Government says. Changes to the Dangerous Dogs Act will also mean dog owners can now face prosecution if their dog attacks a person in their home or on any private property, except if they attack a trespasser. Maximum sentences for allowing a dog to attack someone have also been increased.
The maximum prison sentences in England and Wales are now:
Up to 14 years, from two years, for a fatal dog attack.
Up to five years, from two years, for injury.
Up to three years if an assistance dog is attacked.
The Coalition’s Animal Welfare Minister Lord de Mauley said: “Dog attacks can have horrific consequences for victims and families and it is only right those responsible should face tough punishments. Irresponsible dog owners will not only face longer prison sentences, but will also be liable for prosecution regardless of where an attack takes place, even in their own home. This will give protection to those who provide vital services in the community – postal workers, nurses, utility workers – as well as people visiting family and friends.”
For the first time, the Dangerous Dogs Act also includes a specific offence to protect assistance dogs from attacks.
Crime Prevention Minister Norman Baker, pictured, said: “The Coalition Government is already making real progress in defending the public from out of control dogs and their irresponsible owners. Today’s measures will protect individuals and also assistance dogs, which bring security, confidence and independence to their handlers. Later this year, new measures under the ASB, Crime and Policing Act will enable front-line professionals to crack down on anti-social dog owners who allow their animals to foul public places, menace members of the public and cause distress in the community.”
Further measures to help tackle irresponsible dog ownership will come in to force in April 2016 when microchipping will be a legal requirement for all dogs in England, and from March 2015 in Wales.
At the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), the National Policing Lead for Dangerous Dogs, North Wales Deputy Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard, welcomed the new law as a significant step forward in improving dog control, public safety and responsible dog ownership.
“While this new legislation cannot be enforced retrospectively, I hope it is of some small comfort to the families of the 12 children and eight adults who have lost their lives in dog attacks. The increase in sentencing for the owner of a dog who kills a person from two to 14 years recognises the gravity of these offences.
“My fellow police officers have reported being extremely frustrated with their lack of powers to investigate dog attacks in private places resulting in serious injuries. This new power will protect workers who visit people’s homes to provide essential services such as; health visitors, midwives, utility workers and postal staff, all who have to date been unprotected.
“Attacks on assistance dogs such as guide dogs have also been recognised in the new legislation and will also be subject to a maximum sentence of 3 years – a welcome change given the huge impact this can have, not only on the dog, but of course its owner who relies so heavily upon on the animal for support.
“This new law is not designed to penalise owners of overexcited dogs who nip or homeowners protecting their property from intruders. It is about preventing and appropriately punishing those who do not take responsibility for their animal. We have all seen the devastation caused by a dog attack. Most dog owners care and look after their dogs very well. I hope that the new powers and penalties will make irresponsible owners think about properly training and controlling their dogs, and put an end to needless deaths and suffering.”
