Dog lovers’ hearts sink when they hear stories about dog attacks. At the centre of such stories is the issue of responsible dog ownership. Dog owners must look after their dogs in a way which ensures they do not cause trouble or owners must face the consequences.

On October 20 laws came into force giving police and local authorities new powers to tackle irresponsible dog ownership. These measures enable authorities to take actions aimed at preventing a dog attack on animal or human. Measures taken depend on the seriousness of the issue but include requiring a dog to be neutered, taken to training classes or prohibiting certain people from having charge of the dog.

National Animal Welfare Trust (nawt.org.uk) has produced a fact sheet outlining these recent measures and how you can help protect yourself and your pet.

Someone should tell Dusty that stealing is against the law. He’s been known to take the provision of lunch into his own hands by helping himself from handbags. Previously a stray, this graceful 2 year old Saluki is a friendly gentle boy who can be worried by some situations. He knows "Sit" and has the potential to learn other commands. Dusty has a history of trying to escape so new owners will need a secure garden.

Any new owner would also need to have knowledge of sight-hound traits (dogs who primarily hunt by sight and speed not scent). Once he knows you, he is extremely affectionate. If you would like to home Dusty, contact Battersea Dogs and Cats Home on 0843 509 4444 or see battersea.org.uk.

Called “Stray Dogs in Focus”, Four Paws is holding a photographic exhibition of stray and abandoned dogs. Showcasing photographs by Jo Sax, it includes photographs of celebrities, (such as Peter Egan, Julie Hesmondhalgh, Jilly Cooper and Rankin), with their beloved rescue dogs. The exhibition is at the Menier Gallery, Southwark Street SE1 from Oct 27-Nov 1.