67 owners issued with dog control notices in ten months

Dog control notices were issued to 67 owners following investigations into dangerous animals between February and November.

Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale MSP Christine Grahame said new legislation had led to the nuisance of dangerous dogs in society being dealt with.

Between February and November, there were a total of 693 investigations.

Owners who fail to comply with the notices can be forced to keep their pet on a lead at all times, have it neutered, attend training courses or face a £1000 fine.

Ms Grahame said: “All dogs have to be kept under control, big dogs and small dogs, as indeed some little dogs have to be because some small ones can be quite aggressive.

“Knowing your dog and controlling it – even in your own home where people might be coming, as unfortunately many of these incidents have taken place in somebody’s home – is the key to avoid getting a dog control notice.”