Advice and Information on The Dangerous Dogs Act 

What to do if your dog is seized.

A dog can be seized by representatives of local authorities (i.e dog wardens) and police officers. When on public property a warrant is not needed to seize a dog thought to be “pit bull type”, whether the dog is with an owner or not.

If you are approached in public and asked to hand over your dog you MUST do the following:

Remain calm. Getting upset or angry will not help settle the problem.

Ask to see some form of identification before you hand your dog over particularly if asked by someone in “plain clothes”.

Ask for the officer’s name, collar number, contact telephone number and station they are based at and get it written down so you do not forget it. You will need this at a later stage.

Ask for a receipt and log number to show they have taken your dog and on what grounds they have taken your dog. You may need to attend your local station to obtain this.

Do NOT sign anything you are unsure of. You have the right to refuse to sign anything you do not wish to sign.

Do NOT sign your dog over if you do not want your dog to be destroyed. You do not have to sign your dog over if you do not want to. Without your consent, only a judge has the power to order destruction or registration of your dog.

Make sure you tell the officer of any medical condition your dog has and ensure you supply photocopies of any information regarding this to the person dealing with your dog as soon as possible. If your dog is chipped and vaccinated supply photocopies to prove this.

If your dog is NOT vaccinated to date you must inform the person dealing with your dog. It is highly recommended that you ask them to ensure your dog is vaccinated at the earliest stage. Kennels can often be a source of illness and infection due to the number of dogs there. You may be expected to pay for vaccinations if needed.

Do NOT give any statement without legal representation. You are entitled to request a Duty solicitor if you cannot find your own legal representation.

Once your dog has been taken you MUST seek qualified legal assistance immediately.  If you need help with finding suitable representation or have any general enquiries relating canine legislation please email details including your local area to: help@stopdogattacks.com who will try and offer some assistance.

1991 Dangerous Dogs Act

Dangerous Dogs (Amendment) Act 1997