There are over 20 pieces of legislation that apply to dog ownership in Britain, according to Blue Cross, a charity providing help to sick, injured and abandoned pets. Staying on the right side of the law ensures not only keeping out of legal trouble but also protects the health and wellbeing of your pet and the people that your animal comes into contact with.
Some of the worst offences come with the threat of hefty fines and potential prison sentences for dog owners or those in charge of the dog at the time. Other consequences include being banned from keeping a pet and the potential that the dog must be destroyed.
Of course, most people want the best for their four, or possibly three, legged friend but what if the worst happens and it results in an owner being forced to have their dog destroyed. What are those circumstances? Here's what you need to know.
