Pit bull seized as police target reckless owners

8:38am Friday 27th June 2008

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A pit bull terrier was seized this week as part of a new initiative against irresponsible dog owners in the borough of Barnet.

The unregistered terrier was confiscated from its owner at Nicolson flats, in Grahame Park on Tuesday, in a joint operation by Barnet police and the RSPCA.

Sergeant Roger Mitham, of Colindale's Safer Neighbourhoods team said: "This initiative aims to target dog owners who are mistreating their pets or are irresponsible in their actions.

"We aim to identify dangerous dogs and either ensure the owner follows the law or remove the dog so it is no longer a danger to society."

Police told the pit bull's owner he must comply with legislation as set out in the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act before the dog could be returned.

This would involve registering the dog, having it neutered so it cannot be used for breeding, and keeping it muzzled and on a lead in public places.

As part of the initiative, called Operation BARK (Barnet Action for Responsible K9s), the RSPCA offered the owner a micro-chipping service and a voucher for the dog to be neutered.

Police have dealt with several other incidents involving stray, dangerous or unleashed dogs.