Dangerous dogs – a sensible solution Policy and model legislative framework

Executive summary As individuals and a society we value the positive role that companion animals play in our lives. However there is a persistent gap between the community’s desire to live alongside animals and its knowledge of how to properly interact with those animals. Dog attacks on humans, other companion animals, livestock and wildlife in Australia are similar to other developed countries in most respects. Some breeds of dogs receive more media attention when attacks take place, even though the frequency of attacks by these breeds may be small. For many years countries including Australia have attempted to regulate certain breeds in an attempt to reduce the frequency of dog bites. The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA), along with the national veterinary associations of Britain, the United States and Canada, has recognised that breed-specific approaches to dog regulation are not effective as they do not protect the public by reducing dog bite incidents. This report sets out the facts about dog bites in Australia, along with a detailed critique of breed-specific legislation that bans particular breeds of dog perceived to be more inclined to be aggressive. The association is advocating a legislative approach based on the identification of individual potentially dangerous animals and preventing them from inflicting harm. To develop this model, the association has:  reviewed relevant legislation in Australia  reviewed overseas initiatives and their results in reducing dog bite incidents  drawn on the scientific literature for the most up-to-date information on dog behaviour and welfare  identified the key elements of dog management legislation in relation to dangerous dogs and dog attacks  developed the key principles and elements of a model legislative framework. Dog bites are the result of a complex behaviour caused by the interaction of many factors. While regulation is an important foundation, to reduce dog bites an effective policy response must also include:  Identification and registration of all dogs.  A national reporting system with mandatory reporting of all dog bite incidents to the national database.  Temperament testing to understand the risks and needs of individual animals, to help owners make more appropriate choices for their new pets, and to guide breeders to improve the temperament of puppies.  Comprehensive education programs for pet owners, dog breeders, all parents and all children.
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