Owners of dangerous dogs to be fined

In an attempt to cut down on the number of dog attacks in the UK, the owners of badly behaved canines will now face fines of up to £20,000 if they do not take appropriate corrective measures.

It was reported by the Health and Social Care Information Centre (HSCIC) that in 2013 there were a total of 6,740 hospital admissions caused by dog attacks, which was an increase of 370 from the previous year. Meanwhile, the estimated figure for dog bites each year is said to be somewhere around 200,000.

The owner can be ordered to take the following actions:

• Ensure that a lead is attached to the dog at all times
• Ensure the dog is wearing a muzzle when out in public
• Have the dog neutered
• Have fencing fitted around their property to prevent the dog from escaping

The police and local authorities are now empowered to issue community protection notices (CPNs) to owners if they receive a complaint about their dog.

In more serious cases, injunctions or criminal behaviour orders (CBOs) may be issued if the dog in question persistently intimidates or threatens the local community.

Just over a year ago, MPs proposed changes to dog laws that made it possible for dog owners to be jailed if their animal killed or attacked a person.

Have you been attacked by a dangerous dog?

The vast majority of dog owners are responsible and conscious of other people and ensure that their pet is well-trained. However, unfortunately, some dog owners are not so careful.

If you have been bitten by a dog whose owner failed to control or restrain it, whether this attack happened in public or on private property, you may be entitled to make a claim.

The animal injury specialists at Sheldon Davidson Solicitors have a lot of experience in handling dog bite claims, as well as other and have arranged for clients to receive high-quality medical care while the case is ongoing, as well as practical financial support.

Sheldon Davidson Solicitors are Personal Injury Lawyers in Manchester with an enviable reputation for settling a broad range of Personal Injury Claims, including everything from Fatal Accident Claims and Professional Negligence Claims to Medical Negligence Claims.