New measures to control dog attacks in Singapore

SINGAPORE: From Monday, dogs that have initiated an unprovoked attack and caused injury to a person or animal must undergo obedience training.

This is among new measures taken by the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) to control dog attacks.

Another new requirement is an insurance coverage of at least S$100,000 against injury and property damage.

The owner must also take up a banker's guarantee of $2,000.

Dogs that have attacked before must also be securely muzzled when in public.

The list of potentially dangerous dogs has also been changed.

Among the changes, the Perror de Presa Canario will be transferred from Part II to Part I of the potentially dangerous dogs listed in the Second Schedule under the Dog Licensing and Control Rules.

This means that imports of the Perror de Presa Canario will no longer allowed. A new licence for this breed will be granted after obedience training.

There are about 60 cases of dog attacks every year.

The new measures come after a review which was conducted in consultation with stakeholders such as dog owners, animal welfare groups, veterinarians and the general public.

Source: http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1093321/1/.html%29