Dangerous Dogs – an update

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More news is emerging about Government proposals to curb the menace of dangerous dogs.

It's already been revealed that dog owners may be forced to pay for insurance to cover any damage or injury their pet causes that results in a personal injury compensation claim.

Now plans are going much further, including the proposed introduction of Dog Control Notices – already dubbed 'Dogbos'.

A 'Dogbo' would allow the police or council officials to force owners of dogs of any breed posing a danger to the public to muzzle, leash or even neuter the animal.

At the moment only 4 breeds of dogs are banned, but can still be kept in some cases provided that they are neutered, tattooed with the owner's details, microchipped and only allowed out in public if muzzled and on a lead.

Now it is being suggested that all dogs should be microchipped to identify the owner in the event of a dog attack. It could cost £100 or more to insure and microchip a dog, but with dog attacks up by 20% in just a year, the Communications Workers Union has welcomed these additional measures to try and prevent dog attacks.

The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 is often cited as an example of 'hastily-made and unworkable legislation'.

At the moment it only covers dog attacks in public places, so workers such as postal workers or telecoms engineers who suffer a dog attack on private property, ie: someone's home, find it difficult – though certainly not impossible - to claim compensation.

We will keep a close eye on any developments in this story and, as we work in partnership with the CWU, we too will welcome any measures that would reduce dog attacks on Union members and the public in general.

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Useful links

Dog Bite Compensation http://www.simpsonmillar.co.uk/services ... y-dog.aspx" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Nagam Din
15/03/2010


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