4Children responds to the Department of Food and Rural Affairs’ Consultation on Responsible Dog Ownership

Commenting on the Dangerous Dogs Consultation, Anne Longfield OBE, Chief Executive of 4Children said:

At 4Children, we believe that well-trained and friendly dogs can be a wonderful influence on the lives of children, particularly as family pets. But at the other end of the scale, an untrained and unsocialised dog can be a dangerous menace that can scar a child - physically or psychologically or both - for life. That is not the fault of the dog, it is the fault of an irresponsible or malicious owner.

Although a distinction must be made between attacks in self- defence or against intruders, the number of violent attacks clearly indicates a need for a restructuring of current laws as the Defra consultation proposes.

However, we do not believe that the consultation fully recognises the threat dangerous dogs pose to vulnerable people and children. Consequently, we propose that government introduce more stringent guidance for local authorities and providers of services for dangerous dogs. This might include a 24 hour dangerous dog service, improved training for those that interact with dangerous dogs, and that local residents and business owners are kept well informed of the legal position relating to dangerous dogs.

Community safety should be a top priority for any government, but as the number of dog attacks continue to rise, there are definite signs of national and local government failing to do enough. Whilst there are points yet to be addressed in the consultation, it is at least a vital step toward ensuring that children, and families are kept safe in their communities and their own homes.”

The full consultation can be viewed here

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