Dog Attacks On Guide Dogs On The Rise

When we discuss Dangerous dogs, we automatically think of them attacking humans, but don’t really think about them attacking other dogs. Well in fact, they don't just attack people apparently, and do more harm than presumed.

According to a new report, guide dogs for the blind are under increasing attacks from out-of-control dogs, and attacks are on the increase.

Between March 2011 and February 2013, 240 dog attacks on guide dogs were reported leading to five guide dogs being withdrawn from service during this period - costing the charity £170,000.

ITV News website reports:

“The proposed Anti-Social behaviour, crime and policing bill would make an attack on a guide dog an aggravated offence.

Under the proposal due to be debated by MPs, it would also be an offence for a dog to be dangerously out of control when there is reasonable concern that it will injure an assistance dog such as a guide dog.

Guide Dogs chief executive Richard Leaman believes a change in the law cannot come quick enough for owners who have to deal with the "devastating consequences" of attacks.

"When a guide dog is attacked, someone with sight loss can completely lose their means of getting out and about independently. The impact on their life is huge and we are calling on the Government to do everything in its power to promote responsible dog ownership, deter these attacks, and ensure this deeply worrying trend does not continue."

The CWU has long campaigned for criminal prosecution of the owners of dangerous dogs via its Dangerous Dogs – Bite Back campaign.

You can read more about the need to address dangerous dogs and hep to stop the appalling fact that thousands of postal men and women are attacked each year - here

Source: ITV News