56ASeizure of dogs—investigation of complaints about

56A Seizure of dogs—investigation of complaints about attacking, harassing or menacing dogs (1) This section applies if the registrar investigates a complaint about a dog under section 53A (Complaints about attacking, harassing or menacing dogs). (2) An authorised person— (a) must seize the dog if the complaint is that— (i) the dog attacked the complainant or another person; and (ii) the attack caused the death of or serious injury to a person; or (b) in any other case—may seize the dog. (3) If an authorised person seizes a dog, the authorised person must— (a) impound the dog until the investigation is completed; or (b) if the authorised person is reasonably satisfied that the dog can be kept by the keeper or carer on suitable and secure premises— direct the keeper or carer orally, or in writing, to keep the dog on the premises in accordance with any stated conditions until the investigation is completed. (b) any other condition the authorised person considers appropriate. (5) If the authorised person gives an oral direction under subsection (3) (b), the authorised person must confirm the direction in writing as soon as practicable. (6) A person commits an offence if the person fails to comply with a direction under subsection (3) (b).

(7) An offence against this section is a strict liability offence.