LOCAL MSP SPEAKS OUT AGAINST COMPULSORY MUZZLING OF ALL DOGS
Written by author on May 12, 2014
Dumfriesshire MSP Elaine Murray has spoken out against compulsory muzzling of all dogs during a debate in the Scottish Parliament.
Ms Murray spoke out against the measure during a debate on the consultation on responsible dog ownership this past Tuesday (6 May 2014) in the Scottish Parliament. The public consultation was based on the document“Promoting responsible dog ownership in Scotland”. The consultation was held between the 27 December and 29 March 2014. The document includes a number of measures including the introduction of compulsory microchipping, reintroducing the dog license and compulsory muzzling of all dogs in public places.
Commenting after the debate, Elaine Murray said:
“A number of local people contacted me strongly opposing the idea of compulsory muzzling and I share their objections. Muzzling should not be imposed on well behaved dogs. There are welfare issues associated with muzzling such as the fact that dogs need to pant to cool down. However, I believe muzzling does have its place in individual cases where a dog’s behaviour is frightening or dangerous as it can be imposed as part of a dog control order – as an alternative for example to having the dog put down. However, this is the exception so to muzzle all dogs would be an overreaction.”
On the other proposals in the consultation document, Elaine Murray said:
“Scotland is lagging behind other parts of the UK with regard to compulsory microchipping. I have had both of my dogs microchipped and it brings me peace of mind that should they be lost or worse, they could be identified and I could be informed. I am pleased that legislation may now be forthcoming.”
“On the suggestion of licensing, I have an open mind. Licensing could include raising awareness of the correct care of dogs and the correct control of dogs, enabling owners to fully understand their responsibilities. I am interested to learn what respondents had to say about licensing.”
“I look forward to seeing the result of this consultation and will keep my constituents informed about its progress”
