Scotland is increasing its efforts to help police and dog wardens manage dangerous and uncontrolled dogs. The Scottish Government announced this plan at the Responsible Dog Ownership Summit last September.

The police and dog wardens will get almost £200,000 in funding. Police Scotland received £166,000 to train its officers to recognize banned breeds. This money will also help buy new, specially equipped vans to safely transport dogs that are out of control. The National Dog Warden Association (NDWA) got £30,000 to train wardens who work with local communities.

Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown said, “Most dog owners are responsible. However, we must protect the public from dogs that might pose a danger. The funding for Police Scotland and the NDWA will help us control dangerous dogs and improve public safety. The NDWA training fund will help dog wardens promote responsible ownership, advise on dog welfare, and make sure people follow the law. I thank everyone who joined the Responsible Dog Ownership Summit and look forward to working together to make dog safety even better.”

Jim Ferguson, Chair of the NDWA, added, “We are proud to work with the Scottish Government. Our organization represents local authority dog wardens throughout Scotland. We welcome the recommendations from the summit report. Building on its progress, we will continue to review existing policies and look for more ways to protect people and their pets.”

The summit report shows clear steps for improving public safety and promoting good pet care. Scottish authorities will monitor dog control issues and keep looking for better ways to protect communities and their four-legged friends.