Italy restricts 92 dog breeds
ROME, Sept. 15 (UPI) -- A new law in Italy has placed 92 dog breeds on a restricted list, banning their ownership by children or convicted criminals, a report said Monday.
The legislation was passed by emergency decree after a series of pit bull attacks made front-page headlines this summer.
The new "threatening" category includes dobermans, bull mastiffs and German shepherds, corgis, collies, St. Bernards and pit bulls, of which there are about 16,000 in Italy.
It also includes Newfoundlands, a breed with a reputation for mildness, although Staffordshire bull terriers and their American relation are not on the list, the London Telegraph reported.
Minors, delinquents and criminals who have caused harm to people or animals are barred from owning such dogs, the law states. In cases of illegal possession, it provides for the animal's seizure.
Those who are deemed to be suitable owners will be required to keep "dangerous" category dogs muzzled and on leads in public, and take out special third-party insurance, expected to cost $225.
ROME, Sept. 15 (UPI) -- A new law in Italy has placed 92 dog breeds on a restricted list, banning their ownership by children or convicted criminals, a report said Monday.
The legislation was passed by emergency decree after a series of pit bull attacks made front-page headlines this summer.
The new "threatening" category includes dobermans, bull mastiffs and German shepherds, corgis, collies, St. Bernards and pit bulls, of which there are about 16,000 in Italy.
It also includes Newfoundlands, a breed with a reputation for mildness, although Staffordshire bull terriers and their American relation are not on the list, the London Telegraph reported.
Minors, delinquents and criminals who have caused harm to people or animals are barred from owning such dogs, the law states. In cases of illegal possession, it provides for the animal's seizure.
Those who are deemed to be suitable owners will be required to keep "dangerous" category dogs muzzled and on leads in public, and take out special third-party insurance, expected to cost $225.