Views from our website 18/03/10
THE news that the Government has performed an about face on the prospect of new dog laws has been greeted with a baleful eye on the forums at www.examiner.co.uk
Just last week Environment Secretary Hilary Benn and Home Secretary Alan Johnson proposed a compulsory third party insurance for all dogs to pay for injuries to victims of dog attacks.
But the suggestion — part of a consultation reviewing the dangerous dogs laws — provoked uproar from dog charities and owners who already microchipped and insured their pets and feared they would be hit by heavier bills and more red tape while irresponsible owners would just ignore the law.
Idlejohn seemed disappointed those occupying Westminster’ berths seemed unable to stand by their plan: “At least the dogs have round, spherical objects which is more than those in Westminster do!”
Despondent was glad to see the back of the whole scheme: “It was a stupid idea anyway. What compensation is adequate when a child is mauled to death?
“People didn’t even buy dog licences, never mind an insurance policy, making owners muzzle all such dogs may be a better way.”
StephB is clear that it should be the whole canine species which is consigned to being kept on a ‘short leash’.
He said: “All dogs! Have you ever had a Scottie or other terrier attack your ankles? “They should all, without exception, be on a lead and muzzled when outside their owners’ property.
“And the owners should be fined if found not carrying ‘poop-scoops’ and using them.”
Markmyword49 has come up with a novel scheme to lower the unemployment rate as well as making sure the streets are safe to walk: “With the proposed changes in the ‘clamping’ rules perhaps those thrown into unemployment could be used as enforcers by local authorities.
“After all, there are bylaws in place about dogs. Give them half the fines they collect and the ‘dog’ problem would soon not be one. “We amblers and walkers could then tread the footpaths and admire the countryside rather than admiring our boots and shoes.”
Share
