Dangerous Dog Attacks on the Increase in Edinburgh

Dog Bites

The SSPCA have released statistics for Edinburgh that confirm the number of attacks by dogs on people has doubled in the space of the last two years. It was revealed that at least 36 owners were charged under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 last year compared to 18 in 2007. 

The figures reveal that at least 22 people were attacked by animals in the last year causing personal injuries the victims. The remaining attacks were against other dogs.

There is proposed legislation currently before the Scottish Parliament in the form of the Control of Dogs Bill which is presently being debated. The bill seeks to amend the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 to include acts by dogs wherever they may be and not just in public places and private places where dogs are not permitted to be. The SSPCA have called for this to be introduced as soon as possible. It remains to be seen whether the Control of Dogs Act will attract the same policy as the law being introduced in England and Wales that seeks to microchip dogs and make insurance compulsory for all.

The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 affords remedies to sanction the owner and place restrictions on the offending animal and the Animals (Scotland) Act 1987 confirms that liability on the owner is strict for attacks caused by their dogs.  Victims of such attacks can also make a compensation claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) however the rules are fairly rigid.

If you have been attacked or bitten by a dog call our No Win No Fee Lawyers on 0800 0891331 or complete the compensation claim form below and we will advise if you have a valid claim for compensation.

Compensation Claim Form