Funding for new police vans and training for officers and dog
wardens has been agreed following a Responsible Dog Ownership
Summit hosted by the Scottish Government.
Police Scotland has received £166,000 to train officers to
identify banned breeds and buy specially-equipped vans to
transport dangerous and out of control dogs. The National Dog
Warden Association (NDWA) has received £30,000 to train wardens.
The actions were recommended in a report following the
Responsible Dog Ownership Summit last September. The summit
brought together Police Scotland, local authorities, veterinary
bodies, public health and third sector organisations to consider
improvements to dog control and public safety measures.
Community Safety Minister said:
“The vast majority of dog owners are responsible but it is
important that the public are protected from any dogs who do pose
a danger.
“This Scottish Government funding for Police Scotland and the
National Dog Warden Association will improve public safety and
the control of dangerous dogs. The NDWA training fund will
support training for dog wardens who work in our communities to
promote responsible dog ownership, advise on dog welfare and
enforce legislation.
“I am grateful to those who took part in the Responsible Dog
Ownership Summit and I look forward to continuing to work with
partners to explore further steps to improve dog safety and
control.”
, Chair of the National Dog Warden Association said:
“The National Dog Warden Association are proud partners of the
Scottish Government and our organisation, which represents
Scotland's local authorities dog wardens, welcomed the Scottish
Government Responsible Dog Ownership Summit report and
recommendations. Building on the summit, the NDWA is
committed to working with the Scottish Government and other key
partners to look at opportunities to review existing policy and
pinpoint any opportunities to enhance and strengthen policy in
order to better protect people and pets together."
Background
Report on Scottish
Government Responsible Dog Ownership Summit – Discussions with
key stakeholders on approaches to dog control and dog welfare 20
September 2024 - gov.scot
