The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill passed its final stage in Parliament on 5th December and will now go for Royal Assent. Key points include:
- Unlimited fines - The old £1,000 cap has gone. Courts can now impose unlimited fines reflecting the real harm caused.
- More animals protected - 'Livestock' now includes horses, alpacas, llamas, as well as sheep, cattle, goats, pigs and others.
- More places covered - the law applies in fields and enclosures, on public rights of way, on roads, while livestock are being moved
- Stronger police powers - Police can now seize and detain dogs, enter premises with a warrant, collect forensic evidence.
