cat death

An elderly man in his 70´s was walking two dogs. He was about to put them on leads when someone spoke to him and distracted him. The dogs ran off and it was assumed that a dead cat had been killed by them. He was successfully prosecuted by the RSPCA. He was banned from having custody of dogs for 10 years (effectively a lifetime ban) and fines and costs came to about £5000.

I do know of cases where dog owners have been prosecuted for not being kpet under proper control in attacking cats. Such cases are distressing to both sets of owners. A responsible owner would take steps to keep dog under control, change where the dog is walked etc etc. Is very difficult where a pattern builds up. Normally warnings would given prior to prosecution. Protection of Animals Act has now been overtaken by Animal Welfare Act - which came into force in April 2007.

thanks mary,it as helped,

As far as I am aware..cats are not protected by any laws,should they become an unfortunate victim of a dog attack.

These are the laws that protect cats,currently:

A cat is a domestic animal and enjoys certain rights by law.

A cat cannot be held guilty of trespass.

Under Protection of Animals Act 1911 as extended by later legislation, it is an offence to:

• Steal a cat from his owner

• Ill treat, beat or kick a cat

• Infuriate, terrify or torture a cat

• Use air weapons, crossbows, missiles, etc to maim or injure a cat.

• Put down poison or set snares for a cat.

On conviction, such a person is liable to a fine or imprisonment or both. The Court may also deprive the offender, if he is the owner, of ownership of the animal. It may also disqualify him from having the custody of animals, for such a period as the Court thinks fit.
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If you were seen to encourage or knowlingly allow your dog to chase and harm a cat,knowing what your greyhound could do,if she caught up with it,then you would likely face prosecution and your dog be legally required,to be muzzled and kept on a lead at all time´s when in a public place.

If in any doubt with her and cats....don´t let her off,but exercise her in either a suitable muzzle or without a muzzle and on a long lunging rein,used for horses.................hope that helps Pat!.