|
|
|
|
|
|
|
HOW NOT TO FALL FOUL OF NEW HUNTING ACT |
|
Several NFDOG members have voiced concern about the implications of the new Hunting with Dogs Act. In an effort to allay the fears of ordinary dog walkers, NFDOG asked the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) for guidance. DEFRA’s Hunting Team representative Jackie Rawlings explained that the Act makes the hunting with dogs of all wild mammals an offence, including fox, deer, hare and mink. However, people whose dogs chase and kill a fox against their wishes will not be guilty of a crime. Said Mrs Rawlings:” This is because people will only be hunting when they themselves intend to pursue the quarry animal.” The key point then is whether or not you intended to hunt. Mrs Rawlings went on:” A person is only hunting, for the purposes of the Hunting Act, when they actively set out to hunt a wild mammal. If they do not intend to go out hunting, and simply come across an animal that their dog chases, then they are not hunting. Otherwise, the Act would criminalize innocent dog-walkers. It is usually quite obvious whether someone is hunting or not, but any disputes are a matter for the Courts to decide.” |
|
|
Site designed and hosted by
Copyright © 2000 New Forest
On Line Ltd. |
