Merseyside Dog Attack Tragedy:

We are deeply saddened with the shocking news that a five year old child has lost her life due to a dog attack in the home on New Years Day. Our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with the family and friends at this dificult time.

The full facts surrounding this tragic incident are not yet fully understood as Police investigations are still in progress at this time. The Police have stated that the dog involved was a type of dog prohibited under the Dangerous Dogs Act legislation and a prosecution may follow.  Hopefully, as part of the investigation, the full post mortem results on the dog will confirm whether there was any underlying medical factor for the dogs behaviour.

For some time it has been apparent that the Dangerous Dogs Act needs to be reviewed, as it is not protecting the public and is generally unworkable. The number of people owning and breeding dogs for all the wrong reasons has increased and until this is addressed in a calm and well thought-out manner, the situation will not improve.

Any breed or type of dog can attack if not properly socialised, trained and responsibly owned. Dogs are a product of their upbringing and environment. It is irresponsible and inadequate owners who should be the focus of legislation rather than breeds or types of dog.

As a responsible owner, please keep your dog under control at all times and remember the age old advice that children and dogs should not be left alone unsupervised by a competant adult,  the Kennel Club continues to promote safe interaction between children and dogs through both the Safe and Sound and Good Citizen Dog Scheme.

As media interest and in some cases misinformation continues to intensify, we urge dog owners, in particular of bull breeds and crosses to remain calm and not to panic.

The Dangerous Dogs Act has not recently been changed and is the same now as it was this time last year.

Do not abandon your dog, your friend depends on you at this difficult time.

If you are at all worried or concerned for your dogs safety please contact us for further advice.

If you have any concerns regarding your dogs behaviour always seek the advice of a professional canine behavioural consultant. The Association of Pet Dog Trainers may also be able to help you, to find a trainer in your area click here.

Any moves to alter the existing legislation or introduce new legislation will be posted up on this web site to help keep you informed at all times.

Related Information:

Dogs Trust - Statement on Dangerous Dogs, can be read here.

RSPCA - "The devastating dog attack that resulted in the death of a five-year-old girl in Merseyside has shocked the public and made everyone aware of the danger that dogs can pose" read the full statement from the RSPCA here

Kennel Club - Ellie Lawrenson statement from the Kennel Club, can be read here.

Merseyside Police - Investigation update and information, can be read here.

Merseyside Dog Attack - Information from the Staffycross Welfare Trust.

News Coverage:

K9 Magazine

The Dangerous Dogs Act is useless writes Matt Ford.