Comparetheterriers.com? Will Owners Be Forced to Insure Their Dogs?

Dog attacks have increased sharply in recent years, with the 1991 Dangerous Dogs act being cited as inefficient and unworkable.

The Government is therefore touting plans to introduce a Third Party insurance which dog owners will have to buy, in case their pet attacks somebody. (We're presuming they're not bothering with fire and theft!) There is also a suggestion of making them have their pets micro chipped or muzzled, or, in some cases, neutered.

But since some responsible pet owners already have this kind of cover included in their pet insurance anyway, and have already microchipped their dogs, is it fair that they should have to pay out for a separate insurance? And will we simply see a case similar to car issues, whereby irresponsible, non-law abiding people who don't bother to tax, insure or MOT their cars, simply won't bother either for their pets?

Do you have any dangerous dogs living near you, or have you run the gauntlet in a local park? Are any of your neighbours one of those irresponsible owners, more concerned with a dog as a status symbol or tool of intimidation, rather than a four legged loyal companion? Do you think this is a good idea or another unworkable solution if individuals refuse to take responsibility?

If you or someone you know have been a victim of a dangerous dog, share your story here and let's see how widespread the issue is.

Photos courtesy of wsilva's and cortneymartin's flickrstreams