We, as a dog loving nation, have all been shocked by the sad news of the death of Ian Price who was attacked by 2 dogs believed to be XL Bullies late last week. It has led to the Prime Minister announcing that the breed will be banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act by the end of 2023. Unfortunately, there have been around 7 other dog attack related deaths this year.

In this article, we delve into the implications of this breed ban and the broader issues surrounding dog ownership, safety, and responsible ownership.

The Controversy

It is a tragedy that anything like this has happened and of course we are all want to do something to avoid a similar situation occurring again.

The decision to ban the XL Bully breed has not been without controversy. Critics argue that such a ban may lead to legal disputes over breed classification, diverting attention from the more critical issue of whether the dog was ‘dangerously out of control’. Under the current Dangerous Dogs Act, owners can already face prosecution if their dogs pose a threat.

Legal Consequences

In the wake of this tragedy, it’s essential to highlight the legal consequences. Presently, individuals can be arrested and charged with Manslaughter, carrying a potential life sentence, regardless of the dog’s breed, if their pet is found to be dangerously out of control. This underscores the significance of responsible dog ownership and control.

Breed Nature vs Owner Responsibility

Another aspect of this debate centres on whether the XL Bully breed is inherently aggressive or if it’s the owners who foster aggressive behaviour through inadequate training or intentional encouragement. Current laws already address situations where owners are at fault for their dog’s behaviour, irrespective of the breed. Unfortunately, banning a particular breed might lead to unjust consequences for responsible owners and their well-behaved pets.

Balancing Responsibility

As a nation of dog lovers, it is imperative to hold reckless and irresponsible dog owners accountable without penalising responsible ones. Striking this balance is undeniably challenging. The Prime Minister’s initial announcement is a crucial step, but it remains to be seen whether it will evolve through input from various stakeholders along the way.

Conclusion

The tragic loss of Ian Price has ignited a crucial conversation about dog ownership, breed-specific bans, and the responsibility of dog owners. While addressing the dangers posed by certain dogs is essential, it is equally vital to ensure that responsible owners and their pets are not unfairly affected by sweeping bans. As a society, we must work together to find effective solutions that prioritise safety while preserving the rights of responsible dog owners.

If you fall to be interviewed or have been taken to court expert representation is a must to ensure the best possible outcome in the case. Gepp Solicitors through Elizabeth Bradshaw, partner of the firm, have a proven outstanding record in terms of dealing with such cases including acquittals at the Crown Court, Magistrates court and successful arguments against the imposition of destruction orders. It is extremely important that expert legal advice is given at the earliest stage to ensure the best possible outcome for you.

If you have queries in respect of representation relating to such matters then please do not hesitate to contact us on 01245 493939 or via email at mail@gepp.co.uk.