Bellamy Road estate attack triggers more calls for new dog laws

A resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, said dangerous dogs are becoming a big problem in the area after her pet was attacked by another while waiting to go for a walk on 22nd August.

An RSPCA spokesman said proposed alterations to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 need to be more stringent.

“The Government is proposing new powers to tackle the use of dogs to threaten, intimidate or attack other people or animals.

“We do not believe the measures in the bill provide genuine prevention and so we want to see the introduction of bespoke ‘dog control notices’.

“The RSPCA believes it is the owner not the dog who is responsible for bad behaviour,” A spokesman said.

The most recent dog-on-dog attack was one of four in the past two months.

Both dogs involved were Staffordshire Bull Terriers.

Mansfield District Council said it has recently launched the Your Dog, Your Responsibility campaign to try and tackle irresponsible dog ownership in the area.

Coun Mick Barton, portfolio holder for public protection, said: “We are saddened to hear of the recent dog-on-dog attack and would urge anyone with any information about this incident to report it to the police.

“As part of this campaign, we are working with schools to educate children and parents about how to be a good owner, as well as attending community events across the district to hand out dog goodie bags and talk about the importance of being a responsible owner.”

Nottinghamshire Police said they urge dog owners in the area to keep dogs on a lead at all times.

Neil Williams, area commander for Mansfield South, said: “We work within the current legislation around dogs. I would encourage owners to keep dogs on a lead and under control when outside including in parks where other people including children are using facilities.

“When out on the roads dogs must be kept on leads even if a dog owner knows their dog and thinks it is safe to have off a lead. They can’t always anticipate behaviour.”