Kennel Club calls for responsible ownership
The Kennel Club has drawn attention to new figures released by the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) that reveal over one million dogs in the UK show signs of aggression including growling, snarling and biting towards humans or other animals at least once a week.
The issue of dangerous dogs has recently been thrust into public consciousness again by an incident in which a six year old was attacked last month by an ‘out of control’ dog in Chingford, north-east London. The Kennel Club argues that the circumstances of the incident in question are not reflective of hazards posed a particular breed or type of dog, but instead highlight the problem of irresponsible ownership.
It is the opinion of the Kennel Club that these figures support their argument that irresponsible dog owners and dangerous dog legislation that they argue is 'highly flawed' are putting public safety at risk. The Kennel Club’s Dangerous Dogs campaign, which lobbies for the overhaul of the Dangerous Dogs Act, also has the stated aim of educating the public on the potential risks of not training a dog properly.
Commenting, Communications Director at the Kennel Club Caroline Kisko said, “Any dog can behave aggressively if not trained or socialised correctly or responsibly, just as any dog can be a wonderfully calm and loving pet if trained and socialised in the proper way.”
“By taking your dog to suitable training classes, such as those offered by the Kennel Club’s Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme, you can ensure you are doing your best as a responsible owner to protect your dog, as well as anyone who comes into contact with your dog.”
“The Kennel Club, along with many other leading organisations, believes that current dangerous dog legislation needs to be overhauled to better protect the public by tackling irresponsible owners whose dogs have been allowed to become aggressive through poor training and socialisation.”
To find out more about the Kennel Club’s Dangerous Dogs campaign, visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk/dangerousdogs or for more information on the Good Citizen Dog Training Scheme, visit www.thekennelclub.org.uk/dogtraining.
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
