Unleashed: The Phenomena of Status Dogs and Weapon Dogs

by Simon Harding

Overview

This is the first book in the UK or US to set on record the recent cultural phenomenon of the use of certain dog breeds - both legal and illegal - to 'convey status' upon their owners. Such dogs are easily visible on social housing estates throughout the UK and in projects in the USA and provide acquired authority, respect, power and control. However they are increasingly linked to urban street gangs as 'Weapon Dogs' and present a danger to the ordinary public especially those using parks and open spaces with increased injuries being presented at UK hospitals. Though initially slow to react, local and statutory authorities are now seeking to address the issue through action plans and interventions.  Written in a fresh, engaging and accessible style, this unique book contextualizes the phenomenon in terms of sociology, criminology and public policy. It considers a complex mix of urban and social deprivation, social control of public space and the influence of contemporary media imagery and 'gangsta' culture.  It will make essential reading for academics and policy makers in criminology and criminal justice and those working with animal rights/animal welfare groups.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781447309307
Publisher:	Policy Press
Publication date:	08/29/2012
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	208
File size:	13 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

Simon Harding is a criminologist and lecturer on crime, policing and community safety at Middlesex University, north London. Simon obtained his Doctorate in Youth Justice at the Vauxhall Centre for the Study of Crime at University of Bedfordshire. He has worked in crime and community safety for over 25 years, including the Home Office and several local authorities. He is currently researching gangs in south London.

Table of Contents

Introduction; Methodological challenges of researching status dogs; Who let the dogs out?; Myth or menace?; Motivations and characteristics of owners; Presenting the evidence; Off the chain: the issue of dog-fighting; The implications for public space; Responses; Conclusion.

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

"This book uncovers the truth behind the urban mythology of 'status' dogs. Combining practical insight with academic rigour, it is essential reading for anyone attempting to deal with the phenomenon." Ian McParland, IPC Dog Services, UK

"Sadly, weapon dogs have become a new urban menace, spreading fear and enabling crime. This book is the first to provide a much-needed insight, which will go some way to helping policy makers formulate a solution for the dogs and for us." Kit Malthouse, London Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime.

Editorial Reviews

"This book explores the hidden world of young men and gangs and their desire for dangerous or aggressive dogs, while providing fascinating sociological insight and commentary on this recent phenomenon." Professor Anthony Goodman, Middlesex University, UK

"This book uncovers the truth behind the urban mythology of 'status' dogs. Combining practical insight with academic rigour, it is essential reading for anyone attempting to deal with the phenomenon." Ian McParland, IPC Dog Services, UK

"Sadly, weapon dogs have become a new urban menace, spreading fear and

enabling crime. This book is the first to provide a much-needed insight, which will go some way to helping policy makers formulate a solution for the dogs and for us."

Kit Malthouse, London Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime.

From the Publisher

To ignore this book would be a major oversight in appreciating the inter-relationship between strata of human society, and the uses and abuses of dogs within that society. . . . Mandatory reading.

Kennel Gazette

This book uncovers the truth behind the urban mythology of ‘status’ dogs. Combining practical insight and academic rigour, it is essential reading for anyone attempting to deal with the phenomenon.

IPC Dog Services - Ian McParland

Unleashed is certainly a book that is well worth reading.

Anthrozoös

This book explores the hidden world of young men and gangs and their desire for dangerous or aggressive dogs, while providing fascinating sociological insight and commentary on this recent phenomenon.

Middlesex University - Anthony Goodman

“Unleashed is certainly a book that is well worth reading.

Anthrozoös