9 March 2010

Pet owners could give their views on dangerous dogs to a new Government consultation which is designed to make changes to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

Under new proposals, dog owners may have to insure their dogs against the possibility of them attacking someone, and police and local authorities could be given more powers to ensure owners of dangerous dogs muzzle their pet or even get them neutered.

Owners, animal welfare organisations, vets, dog homes and even victims of dog attacks could be asked for their views on whether the current legislation protects the public from dangerous dogs and actively encourages responsible pet ownership.

Home secretary Alan Johnson told the BBC he was concerned some owners of dangerous dogs keep their pets to intimidate other people.

"What most dog owners recognise is that what's going on is cruelty to animals," he said.

"Other dogs are being treated abysmally because of this fashion for 'status dogs', which has been the main issue over the last five or six years."

The consultation has already advised policy makers to extend the arm of the law to include dog attacks on private property.

This could help protect postal workers and other employees who visit private properties as part of their job.