Q) This seems a lot of value for such a small cost, what’s the catch?

A) There isn’t one.  We think it’s amazing value as well!  We believe that responsible dog owners should have access to specialist legal support at an affordable price.  We hope you’ll never need to use the benefits, but if you do, you’ll be glad you’ve joined. 

Q) My dog never caused any problems.  Why should I join

A) Unexpected incidents can happen even to the most responsible owners and, if that should happen, you’d want the peace of mind that expert help is only a phone call away.

Q) I have used your firm before, but surely I now don’t need to join because lightning doesn’t strike twice

A) But lightning can strike twice.  We provide the reassurance that we’ll be on your side if it should happen again.

Q) By joining, does it become public knowledge

A) No.  As Solicitors we’re bound by strict rules on client confidentiality.  However, by being part of our community we hope that you’ll want to spread the word to your friends and family

Q) I don’t have a problem at the moment.  Wouldn’t it be sensible for me to wait until I need your services

A) The benefits of Doglaw SOS only apply if the incident first arises during your membership.  If you wait until something has gone wrong, it’ll already be too late.  Most members join for peace of mind rather than because they have an immediate problem.

Q) Is it an insurance policy

A) No.  Doglaw SOS isn’t an insurance policy.  It’s a retainer paid to Cooper & Co Solicitors for which you get the benefits specified for 12 months (subject to Terms & Conditions)

Q) Does Criminal Defence include pro bono representation in a prosecution brought under Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

A) No.  Pro bono representation is only provided for the offences set out in the Terms & Conditions which are:-

(i) Section 3 Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

(ii) Section 1 of the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953

(iii) Section 80 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 for breaching a Noise Abatement Notice relating to a dog

(iv) The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations in relation to breaching conditions of a licence for:-

1. dog breeding
2. home boarding
3. boarding in kennels, or
4. dog day care

Q) Does Civil Defence include an application under Section 4B(1)(b) of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

A) No.  A Doglaw civil case (for the purposes of receiving 50% reduction in casework fees for Civil Defence) is set out in the Terms & Conditions as meaning defending:-

(i) a compensation claim for personal injury

(ii) a damages claim for damage to property

(iii) a damages claim for harm to an animal

Q) Are there any restrictions on the number of dogs

A) No, your membership covers all the dogs that you own or keep (subject to the Terms & Conditions)

Q) Are there any restrictions on the type / breed of dog a member can have

A) We are a non breed specific organisation so we are delighted to welcome members with any breed or type of dog.   However, as stated above, we do not provide pro bono representation in a prosecution under Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 nor do we provide 50% reduction in casework fees for an application brought under Section 4B(1)(b) of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

Q) How do I join?

A) The easiest way is online or you can give us a ring during normal office hours

Q) Does my membership renew automatically

A) Yes, but you’re able to stop the auto-renewal at any time before the renewal date

Q) Who can join Doglaw SOS

A) Doglaw SOS is available to individuals who live in England & Wales

Q) How quickly can I start using my membership

A) Your membership starts as soon as we send you confirmation, so there’s no waiting period.  You have the right to cancel within 14 days.

Q) Are there going to be additional benefits in the future

A) Yes, we’re continually looking at ways to improve Doglaw SOS.  In the coming months, we’re hoping to create a free video library for members to access.  We’ll let you know when new benefits are added.