A new report commissioned by the RSPCA entitled “Improving dog ownership: The economic case for dog licensing” calls for dog licensing to be reintroduced.  Benefits brought about by a scheme of licensing would be the improvement of animal welfare and the provision of greater protection to those injured by dog bites.

The report states that “A dog licence would raise money which could be targeted into improving enforcement of laws at a local level, improve the welfare of dogs, and reverse the use of certain breeds of dogs as a status symbol or weapon."

David Bowles, the RSPCA’s director of communications, said that two out of every three dog owners are in support of the proposals.

Dog licensing would not simply be a piece of paper; it could potentially include micro chipping and third party insurance which would add a number of responsibilities to owning a dog.

If you or a family member suffers an injury as a result of a dog attack, you may be able to make a claim. For more information about dog bite claims click here. There are strict rules for the control of certain breeds of dogs but you are not limited to claiming only when you have been attacked by a dangerous dog. It is important that you get independent expert legal advice, preferably as soon as possible.