Changes to dangerous dog laws get royal assent
Changes to the law mean owners can be prosecuted if their dog attacks on private property.
Changes to dangerous dog laws received royal assent last week, meaning tougher penalties for people who allow their dogs to be dangerously out of control.
The Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 became law on March 13. As a result, owners can be prosecuted if their dog is dangerously out of control on private property, as well as in public places.
Veterinary and welfare organisations have cautiously welcomed proposals to change the law since last year, when a draft amendment bill was published by the Government.
The draft bill was published shortly after the death of schoolgirl Jade Anderson, who was mauled by several dogs on private property. Following the incident, the Kennel Club called for an urgent overhaul of the Dangerous Dogs Act.
Since then, a spate of dog attacks have been reported in the media over the past year.
Commenting on changes to the law coming into force in May, the RSPCA said it welcomed moves to strengthen sentences for those with out of control dogs.
The charity's head of public affairs David Bowles, however, said more must be done to prevent dog attacks in the first place.
"Tougher sentences may well act as a deterrent, but reactive legislation on its own will not reduce dog bites and attacks," he said. "The new law lacks any measures to prevent dog attacks or intervene with owners at an early stage."
The new legislation also makes it an offence for a person to allow their dog to attack an assistance dog - a step that has been welcomed by Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.
“Our campaigners and supporters have fought long and hard for legislation which recognises the truly devastating impact of an attack on a guide dog,” said Richard Leman, Guide Dogs' chief executive. “We are delighted that irresponsible dog owners can now be properly brought to account.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
