Tougher jail termsfor owners whosedogs attack others

16 people have been fatally attacked since 2005 but the owners of dangerously out of control dogs can only be sent to prison for a maximum of two years.

As part of the government’s plans to clampdown on dangerous dogs, the public are now being given the chance to have their say about whether dog owners should be given harsher sentences when their dogs attack and cause serious or fatal injuries.

Animal welfare minister Lord de Mauley said: “Dog attacks are terrifying and we need harsh penalties to punish those who allow their dog to injure people while out of control.

“We’re already toughening up laws to ensure that anyone who owns a dangerous dog can be brought to justice, regardless of where a dog attack takes place. It’s crucial that the laws we have in place act as a deterrent to stop such horrific incidents.”

The consultation opened on Monday this week and will run until September 1.

People can take part by visiting the Defra website. Information will be used in the proposed Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Bill.