This protocol is intended to aid local authorities and Police Scotland with the decision making process when considering how best to deal with complaints relating to irresponsible dog ownership within our communities. It has been developed by local authorities, Police Scotland, the National Dog Warden Association, Society of Chief Officers of Environmental Health in Scotland and the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service. The protocol is split into the following areas:
– Overview of legislation
– Where responsibility for dealing with different types of control of dog incidents
may fall
– Role of the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service
– Key contacts
The content of this protocol does not hold statutory status and should be read as offering guidance to those dealing with irresponsible dog ownership. Decisions in any given case about how best to deal with a situation should always be made on the specific facts and circumstances arising.
Download the Revised Protocol in full here.