MSPs call for evidence on dog attacks

There's another breakthrough for Clyde News Lead the Way campaign as MSPs confirm they are to probe how effective the law is in preventing attacks by out-of-control dogs.

Holyrood's Public Audit and Post-Legislative Scrutiny Committee has launched an appeal for evidence after we found the number of dog attacks has risen every year since the Control of Dogs Act came into force in 2011.

The act aimed to ensure dogs are kept under control but recent figures show the number of people who received treatment for dog bites rose from 1,939 in 2015 to 2,027 in 2016.

The committee will look at whether councils are carrying out duties such as serving dog control notices on those with unruly pets.

Committee convener Jenny Marra MSP said: "The Control of Dogs Act was right to recognise that responsibility rests with dog owners to ensure their pets pose no risk to the public.

"Our committee wants to hear a wide range of views on whether the Act has been effective in reducing the number of out-of-control dogs.

"We want to know how well local authorities are carrying out their duties under the Act and whether the public believe legislation can and should be strengthened to prevent dog attacks in the future.''

Those with an interest are invited to contribute views on the legislation by October 5

• lead the way