SA government proposes harsher penalties for dog attacks, illegal breeders
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The SA government has announced a proposal to increase penalties for vicious dog attacks by thousands of dollars and to include jail time in extreme cases.
Tougher regulations for dog breeders could also be included as the government attempts to stamp out animal cruelty.
The proposed amendments include a significant hike in maximum fines for dog owners whose pets cause serious injury or death to a person or another animal.
Deb Cleggett, whose dog Harvey was attacked by a husky, is in favour of the proposed changes.
The maximum fine would increase from $2500 to $25,000, and if the dog was already subject to a dangerous dog order, the maximum fine would double to $50,000.
Individuals who deliberately encourage an attack by their dogs could face a substantial fine of $100,000 or even four years in prison.
Deb Cleggett, whose dog Harvey was attacked by a husky, is in favour of the proposed changes.
Her beloved 12-month-old pet was attacked by a dog linked to a number of other similar attacks in the area.
She said the attack had been "terrifying" and had long term effects on Harvey.
"We had to treat him very differently after that," she said.
"It's pretty scary because you do wonder 'Am I going to have to get hurt myself if I have to go in and intervene?"
Deb said the attack had been
The proposed changes also target dog breeders, introducing stricter regulations to curb large-scale puppy farming operations.
Breeding programs will be limited to a maximum of 50 female animals, and breeders will be required to obtain a licence and adhere to stringent guidelines.
David Parkin from the Dog and Cat Management Board said it was very important that owners were aware of the responsibility that comes with dog ownership.
"There are great responsibilities when it comes to owning dogs," he said.
This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
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