Review of the Dangerous Dog Act

Friday, 09, Jan 2009 12:00

It is natural and completely understandable that in any occurrence of a dog attack the media will be attracted to the violence of the story, but it can no longer escape the public's notice that discussions regarding newly branded 'status dogs' is now a popular topic. However, while discussion bandies around the same three areas: dog-fighting, dog attacks and banned breeds, politicians and spokespeople are missing the essential aspect of the failings within the Dangerous Dog Act: breed specific legislation.

This week on London Tonight, ITV screened a series of reports looking at status dog issues in the capital and brought in spokespeople from the Mayhew Animal Home, welfare organisations, the government and behavioural experts to comment on the current legislation and what the next step should be. Our animal welfare officers were interviewed in the reports and specific attention was paid to a case study of a badly abused Staffordshire bull terrier crossbreed that came in to our care six weeks ago. It was a prime example of untraceable owner accountability and the extent of injuries caused by dog-fighting activities. Whilst the condition of the young dog is shocking, what should horrify people the most is that while there are very limited advertising restrictions on dog sales, indiscriminate breeding and no registration of ownership, whoever meted out this terrible cruelty can easily obtain one or more dogs at a moment's notice.

While it is possible to comment on the problems involved with dog-fighting and the resulting injuries to dogs and people, the constant overlooked issue is one of breeding; an aspect UK rescue centres are only too familiar with. Over-population is a major problem in this country and the banning of breed types under section one of the DDA has proved to be an impotent aspect of the legislation. If successfully enforced, the Pit Bull type dog should be a very rare, if not non-existent, breed in Great Britain and should be easily traceable by enforcement officers. However, as is all too crystal clear, these dogs are still very much in existence and continue to be bred and sold on at an alarming rate. It is a positive move that the legislation is currently under review, yet unless much stricter measures are discussed in regard to breeding, it is a concern that will see little change.

For the public, there is a climate of fear regarding dog attacks by specific breeds and for rescue centres there is an equally despondent climate as we witness high percentages of bull breeds arriving weekly. It must be stressed that it is not common for them to arrive associated with behavioural issues, but rather the fact that the over-population of breeds such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier and staffy crosses mean they are seen as a disposable commodity. Once the fad of a status dog wears off, owners realise they are ill-equipped to afford or care for an animal and so they arrive on our doorstep.

While breeding is seen as a financial opportunity for many, dogs are kept unneutered and when the reality of caring for a litter of puppies hits home, owners are willing to hand over several young puppies in to our care with alarming speed. Although we strive to take in as many of these animals as possible and re-home them to a responsible owner, it is frustrating to be used as a dumping ground for people whose flippant attitude to a weak legislation means they have no concerns over the ramifications of illegal breeding.

Many members of the public will not be aware that although Pit Bull types are illegal under Section One of the DDA, in addition to announcing their plans for a new dog squad, the Met have also reviewed their procedures for seizing Pit Bull types and kenneling them while court procedures take place. If responsible ownership can be ascertained and the owner is willing to comply with sterilization, micro-chippng, a tattoo, keeping the dog muzzled and leashed in public etc. for their canine charge, then they may in some circumstances be allowed to keep the animal. This will certainly reduce space in police kenneling and is a sensible step forward to addressing a problem which they can no longer pretend is under control. It will also be a reprieve for responsible owners and their dogs, of which there are many.

For staff and volunteers at The Mayhew, it is a wretched feeling to kennel identified Pit Bull types that have been brought in as strays for the required seven day period, which is specified for their owners to come forward. Once that seven day period is up, and if no owner has arrived, then the dog has to be euthanised under the law. It is increasingly frustrating when, in theory, these animals should not exist in the first place and very distressing when they arrive with horrendous injuries from dog fighting. It is all we can do to give them a peaceful and pain-free last few days. These dogs are condemned to a life of suffering and misery from the word go, which is why it is essential more is done to monitor advertising of pet sales, illegal breeding and push for some form of compulsory dog registration.

The Mayhew Animal Home works in collaboration with BARK (Brent Action for Responsible K9's) with the Metropolitan Police, RSPCA, Brent Council and Brent Housing Partnership. This collaboration works at a public, grassroots level to increase awareness about responsible dog ownership and dog legislation. With the Met pledging this week to create a specialist dangerous dog unit, it remains for welfare organisations to wonder what this will entail and how it will increase responsible pet ownership - the core issue.

Instead of punishing people with a penalty system, more needs to be done to encourage responsible pet ownership and open avenues for owners to receive advice and help. The idea of dog licensing can be seen to have negative connotations, but there are examples of alternative legislation in countries like Canada, where in some cities dog registration is compulsory and fees reduced if you comply with responsible ownership guidelines such as neutering and micro-chipping.

The Mayhew will continue its vital work with community-based educational initiatives and provide free bull-breed neutering, funds permitting, at our Community Veterinary Clinic along with other low-cost vaccination, microchipping and basic animal health procedures and advice for pet owners.