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Dogs and the Law.

Does your dog need a license, should it be chipped are you buying it from a reputable breeder and is it covered under the Dangerous Dogs Act?

License.

Up until 1987 you needed to have a dog license, today there are no restrictions and anyone can own a permitted breed of dog, the RSPCA believe that the dog license was a good thing and would like to see it reintroduced as it will reduce the number of homeless dogs.


Micro chipping for Dogs.

All dogs must be micro chipped, since April 2016 it has been a legal requirement for all dogs to be micro chipped, your vet will charge around £25 chip your dog, but lots of animal charities will do it for free.
If you want to know more visit the 'Chip it - Check it' web site. Failure to microchip your dog can result in a fine up to £500.


Breeding Dogs.

If you are breeding more than two litters per year you are a dog breeder and require a licence to continue breeding, the new Law introduced in February 2017, is designed to give dogs the best start in life.

Under the new laws it will be illegal to sell puppies and remove them from their mother under the age of eight weeks.
Pet shops will also be required to give buyers written information about the animals they buy.

This information will include details of the five welfare needs owners must meet under the Animal Welfare Act: environment, diet, behaviour, housing and freedom from pain.

To apply for a dog breeding licence, you will need to contact your local council, applications are not available online.
The licence will be valid for one year and you will need a visit from an inspector to ensure that you meet the criteria.

If you need advice about breeding dogs contact the Kennel Club.
Failure to hold a licence can result in prosecution and a fine.

The Dangerous Dogs Act.

As a dog owner you have a responsibility to your dog, you must

■ keep it under control
■ clean up after it in public
■ tag your dog with your contact details
■ ensure the dog is micro chipped
■ meet the dogs' welfare needs

If you don't your dog can be removed from you and you may face a fine and a ban.

The Dangerous Dogs Act of 1991 makes it illegal to own any of the controlled dogs, unless you have permission from a court to do so.

Controlled Dogs.

Four dogs are identified under the Act

■ Pit bull terrier
■ Japanese Tosa
■ Dogo Argentino
■ Fila Brasileiro

However, a dangerous dog is classified by 'type' not breed, which means that cross breeds are covered under the Act and it will depend on a court's decision if the dog is classed as a dangerous dog or not.

If you are looking to buy a dog and are uncertain about it in anyway contact the RSPCA or the Kennel Club for advice.



The Dangerous Dogs Act.
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