Dog owners in Stone and the surrounding area are being reminded that their pets do not have to bite someone for them to face prosecution under dangerous dog laws.
Staffordshire Police has issued advice explaining that a dog can be considered dangerously out of control if its behaviour gives someone reasonable grounds to fear that they could be injured.
Under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, this can amount to an offence even if nobody is physically hurt. The law applies to dogs of all breeds and covers public places and private property, including the owner’s own home.
A dog running towards somebody in a threatening manner, for example, could lead to action if the circumstances give that person reasonable grounds to fear injury.
Police are reminding owners to make sure their dogs remain under control, do not escape from their properties and are not allowed to intimidate people or other animals.
Owners should also check that gates, fences and property boundaries are secure. Before letting a dog off its lead, they should be confident that it will respond to commands and remain under effective control.
Local rules for dog owners
Alongside national legislation, Stafford Borough Council has a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) covering dog ownership.
The order includes restrictions requiring dogs to be kept on leads in designated areas, as well as rules excluding them from specified children’s play areas. Owners may also be directed to put their dogs on leads by an authorised council officer.
The borough’s rules also cover dog fouling and limit the number of dogs one person can walk at any one time.
Breaching a PSPO can result in a £100 fixed penalty notice or a fine of up to £1,000 following prosecution. These penalties are separate from those under dangerous dog legislation.
Dog owners can check the restrictions and accompanying maps on Stafford Borough Council’s Public Spaces Protection Order page.
What happens if a dog is dangerously out of control?
Police have warned that failing to control a dog can have serious consequences, including criminal investigation, prosecution and the seizure of the animal.
Depending on the circumstances and seriousness of an offence, penalties can include an unlimited fine, imprisonment, disqualification from owning dogs or a court order for the dog to be destroyed.
Staffordshire Police is encouraging owners to take appropriate precautions at home and when out walking to prevent incidents before they occur.
