Welsh Government proposals to help control dangerous dogs by tougher sanctions on irresponsible owners have been welcomed by Caerphilly AM Jeff Cuthbert.
Labour’s Environment Minister John Griffiths wants new laws which could include measures for owners of dogs who have failed to keep their animals under control. He has previously said he plans to introduce compulsory microchipping for all dogs.
Caerphilly’s Assembly Member Mr Cuthbert said: “Dangerous dog attacks are an on-going problem across Caerphilly and indeed across the whole of the UK. I have had a number of residents’ contact me about this and in 2010 someone from Llanbradach was successfully prosecuted for owning fighting dogs.
“This is clearly an issue which current legislation has not been able to address and most of these horrific incidents could have been avoided if owners had made sure their dogs were properly looked after with regular exercise, a healthy diet and some training.
“Sadly, there are still owners who do not take full responsibility for their pets. Compulsory microchipping is one idea that I think would make a difference as owners will know if their dogs do attack they will be held responsible.”
Speaking at a recent debate about dangerous dogs led by Labour AM Julie Morgan, the Environment Minister, John Griffiths said: “Any dog can be dangerous, and dog training, socialisation and the responsibilities of dog owners all play a key part in ensuing that dogs do not pose a danger. In developing any new proposals, these issues must be borne in mind.”
In December 2011, North Cardiff AM Julie Morgan revealed that out-of-control dogs were attacking people in Wales almost every other day on average.
Freedom of Information figures revealed that 497 attacks had been recorded in three years but no action has been taken against owners in most cases.