This has been mentioned in the dog press but I thought it was definitly worth mentioning here. This is a golden opputunity for anyone who is an 'interested party' to submit evidence for consideration to a Government Select Committee Inquiry into dog control and welfare.

"The Committee invites all interested parties to address the following matters in writing by Monday 2 July 2012:

Whether the Government's proposed approaches will deliver the right legal framework, enforcement regime and educational support to reduce irresponsible dog ownership and tackle out of control dogs;
Concerns about the welfare of dogs linked to breeding approaches"

There is a link to a pdf at the bottom of the webpage which details how submissions have to be made. War and Peace isn't necessary, actually it can't be more than 2000 words so shouldn't take long to do.

If you can, please pass this link onto others so it is circulated as widely as possible.

If you have views about compulsory microchipping, the DDA and puppy farming then PLEASE respond to this and lets get the voice of genuine, serious dog people heard as well for a change!

I think you have forgotten the link :)

Duh!! Thanks ;-)

http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/commons-select/environment-food-and-rural-affairs-committee/inquiries/parliament-2010/dog-control-and-welfare/

Have already responded, plus sent a seperate email to DEFRA as many salient points  of concern to pet dogs are left out, as it's focus in "dangerous" dogs, but the effect will be apparent to all dogs, if it goes ahead.  Even had a reply back, which ignored all the points I raised!

Gwen, that is so typical of DEFRA I find it is almost as though they have not bothered to read the written word and questions asked, as usual reply with a stat response advising me on what I am already aware of. Sometimes even relating to matters that I did not ask about because I was already aware. So very frustrating.

I shall be responding to the EFRA enquiry and doubt struggle to keep it to 2,000 words, knowin the way I can ramble on.

Even had a reply back, which ignored all the points I raised!

They have to be 'seen' to be doing something, which is why the web site, seemingly, full of DEFRA flexing huge muscles on behalf of & for the benefit of the electorate & a few short statements to the press gives the 'electorate' something to 'see'.

Theres a whole world of difference between that & seriously listening to individuals who after all only have everyday, first hand, extensive experience of the points they raise but no voice that anyone else can hear, let alone see, it's called 'politics'.