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Report dog attacks, dog fouling and stray or lost dogs.
The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 makes it a criminal offence to allow any dog to be dangerously out of control in a public place or a private place where the dog has no right to be.
A dog is regarded as "dangerously out of control" under the Act if there are grounds for suspecting that it will injure a person, whether or not it actually does so. If no injury is caused, the maximum sentence is a fine of £2000 and/or six months imprisonment. Where actual injury is caused the maximum sentence is two years imprisonment and/or unlimited fine, plus if appropriate, destruction of the dog.
The Court can also specify particular forms of restriction, such as muzzling or leashing, for all types of dog. They also h ave the power to disqualify owners from having custody of a dog for any period of time if felt appropriate.
Report to the police via phone on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
Please note that without key information identifying the attacking dog’s owner or walker, we will only be able to record cases for informative purpose.