Chilled to the bone by devil dog attacks
It’s time for all large dogs to be muzzled in public. Two people, one a child of three, have needlessly perished in a week and it’s two too many. All large dogs are capable of killing, whether or not they’re considered dangerous breeds.
We have been soft on irresponsible dog owners for far too long and there can be little doubt this disturbing situation will continue until something is done.
In my view, it’s little use bringing charges against irresponsible owners because it’s like shutting the door after the horse has bolted.
We’re not dealing with horses though, we are dealing with vicious dogs, which will kill again unless the authorities take immediate action. Bill Cook, Teignmouth, Devon
So another child has been attacked and killed by a dog, just days after the horrific death of David Ellam. All owners should be forced by law to have their dogs, regardless of breed, not only microchipped, but also registered and licensed. They should also be made to take out some sort of liability insurance and face heavy fines if they fail to comply with these laws. What’s more, dogs should be muzzled when they are outside, even in the garden. Eddie Croft Birstall, West Yorks
The horrific deaths of David Ellam and threeyear-old Dexter Neal tragically highlight the failure of breed-specific legislation in Section 1 of the Dangerous Dogs Act, which classifies dogs based on their appearance rather than their actions. The fact that a few measurements can determine whether a dog is dangerous or not – rather than its behaviour – has never made sense and can lead to heart-breaking consequences.
Blue Cross wants to see a repeal of Section 1 and instead a focus on empowering enforcers to tackle irresponsible owners and dangerous behaviour of any breed of dog before attacks happen, so that our communities are kept safe. Becky Thwaites, Head of Public Affairs, Blue Cross pet charity
Having read about the death of two people in a week caused by dogs, when will the Government take some firm action?
These terrible tragedies happen just so that someone can look tough in front of their friends by owning such a dog. It is totally unjustifiable.
I’ve been bitten myself, and I believe the Government should get on with banning a wider range of these dangerous dogs which are weapons on legs. Neil Georgeson, Battle, East Sussex
Two more people have been savaged to death by dangerous dogs, including a three-year-old boy.
How many more devastating attacks will there be before something is done?
There needs to be much tougher regulations on owning dangerous breeds – and those who can’t control their dogs should face a lifetime ban on owning one. Terry Jones, Prescot, Merseyside
As an owner myself, I believe that all dogs that bite people should be put down, regardless of the breed. The only exception should be if the dog bites an intruder who breaks into a property. Joan Rosher, Fairford, Glos
Any dog, even small ones, can turn and cause terrible injuries, even death. It’s high time something was done about irresponsible owners who can’t control their pets. Leslie Newton via email