MSPs Request More Information on Dog ASBOs

Tue, 26 Jan 2010

Scottish politicians have voiced concerns that proposals for dog ASBOs may prove too expensive. The Anti-Social Behaviour Orders have been used to deal with anti-social teenage behaviour in recent years, and are now being considered as part of the Control of Dogs Bill recently backed by Holyrood’s local government committee.

Current animal control orders have been described as ‘piecemeal’, with some SNPs convinced that dog ASBOs could prove an effective way of ensuring pet owners ensure their pets are behaving correctly. Irresponsible owners would be fined under the proposals, and could also be forced to keep their canine animals on a lead, have them neutered or attend special dog training courses.

While the proposals have the backing of the local government committee, the government has warned that estimates of a £4,000 cost per year to local authorities could be too conservative. Indeed, the Scottish Borders council has said it would need more money to implement the proposals. MSPs have therefore asked for more information on the costs, which appear to be the only major stumbling block which may prevent the legislation from being passed.

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