'Huge step forward' as dog attack fine cap lifted

ANIMAL and agricultural organisations have welcomed tougher penalties for dog walkers whose pets attack farm animals.

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Rachel Hallos, National Farmers' Union (NFU) vice-president, hailed the rule changes as "a huge step forward" to protect animals, and the Royal Kennel Club said the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill was a "necessary modernisation" of the law.

Peers and MPs have both agreed to lift a £1,000 cap on fines, which English and Welsh courts can impose in dog attack cases.

Llamas, alpacas and other members of the camelid family will also have new legal protections against dog attacks and worrying, in line with goats, sheep, cattle and poultry.

The Bill has cleared both Houses of Parliament and will become law once it receives royal assent.

"Attacks on livestock have a devastating impact on farmers, their families and their animals, and we have consistently called for stronger protections and tougher laws to reflect the seriousness of this issue," Ms Hallos said.