§ Mr. Buchananasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he has taken to reduce the risk of dogs attacking people.
§ Mr. William RossMy right hon. Friend the Home Secretary and I have, in consultation with interested parties, devised a Code of Practice for the Use of Guard Dogs. In framing this code, the terms of which follow, we have had the assistance of the two Associations of Chief Police Officers, the British Security Industry Association and a number of dog welfare societies. My right hon. Friend and I trust that the widespread distribution of this code will improve practice in the use of guard dogs and so go some way towards avoiding tragic accidents such as that in Glasgow last year.
USE OF GUARD DOGS
CODE PRACTICE
1. All persons and organisations who provide dogs for security purposes, for hire or reward should
- (i) keep a register readily available of all dogs in which the details of each dog will be recorded;
- (ii) keep a log-book of all hirings which should include the names of the dogs and handlers; and
- (iii) be adequately insured against all claims.
2. No dog should be used for security purposes unless it is fully and propertly trained to such a standard that it can be kept under adequate control at all times.
3. Dogs should be kept in a healthy condition, properly kennelled, fed and watered.
4. Every dog should be used under close supervision at all times (preferably accompanied by a suitably trained handler).
5. Unless under the immediate control of the handler, dogs should be used only on premises or in areas that are reasonably proof against escape and unauthorised entry.
6. Dogs should be transported only in vehicles which afford adequate protection against escape by, or injury to, the dog. The dog should be in a compartment separated from the driver of the vehicle
7. Warning notices should be displayed where dogs are being used for the purpose of guarding premises.