Menu
13/05/2014
Owners To Face Longer Sentences Over Dog Attacks
Irresponsible dog owners who allow their dog to attack people or assistance dogs will face tougher prison sentences from today, Tuesday.
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.
The maximum sentences for allowing a dog to attack someone have also been substantially 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.
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.
Guide Dogs Chief Executive Richard Leaman said: "An attack on a guide dog can be devastating. It can rob someone with sight loss of their independence and freedom, leaving them virtually housebound.
"We're delighted that irresponsible owners can now be given tougher sentences if their dog attacks an assistance dog.
"With an average of 10 guide dogs being attacked every month, we’re looking to the police to fully use their new powers to protect vulnerable people from these sometimes life-changing attacks."
(CVS/CD)
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.
The maximum sentences for allowing a dog to attack someone have also been substantially 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.
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.
Guide Dogs Chief Executive Richard Leaman said: "An attack on a guide dog can be devastating. It can rob someone with sight loss of their independence and freedom, leaving them virtually housebound.
"We're delighted that irresponsible owners can now be given tougher sentences if their dog attacks an assistance dog.
"With an average of 10 guide dogs being attacked every month, we’re looking to the police to fully use their new powers to protect vulnerable people from these sometimes life-changing attacks."
(CVS/CD)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
06 August 2013
Govt Proposes New Sentencing For Fatal Dog Attacks
New proposals for England and Wales could see owners of dogs that attack and kill face a life sentence in prison. Currently, the maximum sentence is two years for those convicted of allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control. Under proposals put forward by the government, a range of new sentences would be available, from seven years to life.
Govt Proposes New Sentencing For Fatal Dog Attacks
New proposals for England and Wales could see owners of dogs that attack and kill face a life sentence in prison. Currently, the maximum sentence is two years for those convicted of allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control. Under proposals put forward by the government, a range of new sentences would be available, from seven years to life.
22 September 2014
Twenty Dogs Die In East Yorkshire House Fire
Humberside Fire and Rescue have confirmed that twenty dogs have died in a fire in East Yorkshire. It is understood that a fire broke out at the home of a private dog breeder on Graingers Road, Hornsea, at about 19:00 on Saturday.
Twenty Dogs Die In East Yorkshire House Fire
Humberside Fire and Rescue have confirmed that twenty dogs have died in a fire in East Yorkshire. It is understood that a fire broke out at the home of a private dog breeder on Graingers Road, Hornsea, at about 19:00 on Saturday.
11 June 2012
Rise In Attacks On Guide Dogs
Attacks on guide dogs by other dogs have reached a new high of more than eight a month, according to the charity, Guide Dogs.
Rise In Attacks On Guide Dogs
Attacks on guide dogs by other dogs have reached a new high of more than eight a month, according to the charity, Guide Dogs.
03 March 2011
Explosives Sniffer Dog Handler Killed
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of Lance Corporal Liam Tasker, The Royal Army Veterinary Corps, 1st Military Working Dog Regiment, who died in Afghanistan on Tuesday. Lance Corporal (L/Cpl) Liam Richard Tasker deployed to Afghanistan on 8 September 2010 as part of 1st Military Working Dog Regiment.
Explosives Sniffer Dog Handler Killed
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of Lance Corporal Liam Tasker, The Royal Army Veterinary Corps, 1st Military Working Dog Regiment, who died in Afghanistan on Tuesday. Lance Corporal (L/Cpl) Liam Richard Tasker deployed to Afghanistan on 8 September 2010 as part of 1st Military Working Dog Regiment.
09 July 2009
Dangerous Dogs Seized By Police During Raids
Twenty dangerous dogs have been seized by officers in police raids in south London. During the operation - one of the largest of its kind - specialist officers raided the homes of suspected gang members and owners of illegal dogs and seized mostly pit bull terrier type dogs from 12 addresses in Lambeth.
Dangerous Dogs Seized By Police During Raids
Twenty dangerous dogs have been seized by officers in police raids in south London. During the operation - one of the largest of its kind - specialist officers raided the homes of suspected gang members and owners of illegal dogs and seized mostly pit bull terrier type dogs from 12 addresses in Lambeth.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
