The Law about Dogs in the UK
Vernon Coleman
In Britain it is now against the law to let a dog be dangerously out of control anywhere, including in public places, in private places and even in the owner’s own home.
According to the law, a dog is considered to be dangerously out of control if it injures someone or makes someone worried that it might injure them.
The second part of that sentence is the crucial one.
The dog doesn’t have to bite to be dangerous.
All the law requires is that someone FEARS that the dog might do them harm.
The penalties are severe.
A dog owner can get an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to six months (or both) if their dog is dangerously out of control. And the dog owner convicted may not be able to own a dog in the future. The dog may be destroyed.
Astonishingly, very few dog owners know the law.
Just the other day an out of control dog ran up to me and pinned me against the side of my car. When I politely pointed out to the owner that she was breaking the law, and liable to severe punishment, she called me a liar and insisted that there is no such law.
Well, she was wrong.
I suggest that all dog owners in the UK visit the British Government’s website and look for the heading ‘Controlling your dog in public’.
Or simply key the words ‘Controlling your dog in public’ into a search engine.
Those who are nervous of dogs might also like to take a look at the details of the new law. It is well worth knowing.
Copyright Vernon Coleman 2019
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