Dog Control Laws Out Of Date, Say Campaigners

Do Something About This, Government To Be Told
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Animal welfare campaigners are to join vets, MPs and trade unionists to urge the Government to press ahead with reforming the law on "irresponsible" dog ownership.

Organisations including the Kennel Club, the Communication Workers Union, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, the Police Federation and the Royal Mail are supporting a petition calling for a Bill to be included in next year's Queen's Speech to update dog control legislation.

The groups, which are taking their case to Parliament, said the issue of irresponsible dog ownership covered allowing them to foul or stray, encouraging them to be dangerously out of control, contributing to anti-social behaviour or even using them as a weapon.

Huw Irranca Davies, shadow food and farming minister, said: "Despite last year's consultation on dangerous dogs, and assurances from the Prime Minister to discuss the topic, the Government has failed to address what the organisations all agree is inadequate legislation that does not sufficiently protect the public, worker safety and animal welfare.

"The organisations and MPs here ... cover a wide range of interests and areas. However, we are united in our agreement that enough is enough and urgent action is needed to improve the current laws regarding irresponsible dog ownership."