Once people fully understand the vague definition of "pit bull type" its not unusual for them to then look at their dog and wonder if they may be in breach of the Act. Unless very experienced even vets, trainers and many police officers can only guess. This section covers some of the most common questions we are asked. If you have a question not covered in this section please use the contact us form. Please remember, unless stated the following only applies to England, Scotland and Wales.
"I think my dog may be pit bull type. What should I do?"
It is illegal to own a pit bull type dog unless the dog is a registered dog on the Index of Exempted dogs. Anyone who feels their dog may be type is breaking the law. If you feel your dog is a banned type you should contact the authorities who will send an expert to properly identify your dog. It is advisable to also ensure your dog is neutered, chipped and to have been vaccinated within the last 12 months. Owners "going forward" can find it stressful and DDA Watch are avaliable to give help and advice to owners going through the process. Please contact us if this applies to you.
"My dog has been identified and is not a pit bull type. What do I need to do now?"
If your dog has been identified as a legal breed or cross breed it is advisable to get something in writing from the person who identified your dog. This may stop your dog being seen again in the future. If you dog was not seen by a recognised Expert however, your dog may be able to be seized at a later date. Most vets and dog trainers etc are not recognised experts. If in any doubt please contact us.
"My dog has been idenitified as a pit bull type. What can I do now?
Once a dog has been identified as a pit bull type it is up to you as owner, to prove differently or to agree to the charge. You will need to go to court regardless of the route you choose to take. You cannot apply to the courts youself, the local authority will do this. The Authorities have two routes by which they can apply to the courts. Section one of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 or section 4(b). Both sections achieve the same aim but in very different ways. Please see below for more on each section.
Can my dog be destroyed without my consent?
Police and local authorities cannot destroy your dog without your consent. The only way a dog can be destroyed, even if pit bull type, is if a court makes an order for the destruction of the dog. If however you can show a court that your dog is either not a pit bull or that your dog is a pit bull type but does not pose a danger to the public and you are a responsible owner, the court may well allow your dog to be exempt and instead order your dog be registered.
Can I see my dog while he is being held?
Generally speaking, no. It is possible that the authorities allow a visit but this is very rarely done for a number of reasons. The kennels holding dogs seized are kept confidential to protect both staff and dogs held at the premises. Even if you think you know where your dog is we strongly recommend you DO NOT attempt to gain access by any means other than agreed contact via the authorities. It is not helpful to anyone or the dogs held to be faced with an angry owner and you will most likely find yourself arrested if you refuse to leave.
Both owners and dogs can get very upset at seeing each other and leaving without taking the dog home. For this reason it is often better to concentrate your efforts on the return of youir dog.
My dog has never been in kennels before. I am concerned they will not cope with the situation.
A kennel environment can be stressful for some dogs, particually those not used to that situation. Some authorities will allow owners to provide a blanket or similar from home so the dog has something familiar with them. Please note however that you may not get items handed in, such as a blanket, back again. In kennels dogs can become destructive and the blanket may be become damaged and need to be replaced. Even so, this can help a dog settle easier in the inital few days. You will need to check with the seizing officer to see if they will allow this.
For dogs that really do not cope well with kennelling, the authorities have a duty of care to ensure the physical and mental wellbeing of the dog.