‘Dog Asbos’ to be issued to reckless pet owners

New ‘Dog Asbos’ will be introduced for owners of out-of-control pets, under a new Government clamp-down announced today.

For the first time, police and Town Halls will be able to demand that owners take action to prevent a dog attack or risk fine of up to £20,000.

The clamp down comes amidst growing concern over the threat posed by dangerous dogs amid a spate of fatal attacks.

Eight adults and thirteen children have died from dog attacks since 2005 and last year some 6,740 people needed hospital treatment after being attacked by a dog – an increase of 6 per cent from 2012.

On average nine postmen a day are attacked by dogs – some 3,300 attacks a year.

The new powers aiming to prevent thousands of dog attacks every year will be given to police forces and councils from Monday.