Killing danger dogs not only answer says MSP

THE MSP behind a "dog asbo" bill has said dogs that attack people should not be destroyed.

As new figures showed the number of dog attacks in the Lothians had risen sharply over the last ten months, Christine Grahame suggested that in some cases the animals could be re-trained rather than destroyed, adding that it was often more appropriate to "demonise the owner" rather than "demonise the dog".

The MSPs Control of Dogs (Scotland) Act will allow wardens to issue notices to dog owners demanding they keep their pet under control.

And Ms Grahame said she could understand why ten-year-old Dundee schoolgirl Rhianna Kidd did not want the two Rottweilers who savaged her face last month to be put to sleep.

The MSP told the Evening News: "A dog attack is always going to be horrific, but I could understand why the little girl did not want the dogs to be destroyed.

"In many cases it isn't the dog's fault. It is down to poor training and because a person owns a breed or size of dog that is not suited to them. There are also people who actively encourage their dog to attack.

"Often we should demonise the owner, not demonise the dog.

"When an incident occurs, the owner will often volunteer to have the dog put down. But if they resist this, under the new legislation an application will be sent to the sheriff, who will decide what course of action to take depending on the circumstances. The dog may just need training and exercise.

"Of course, if the attack is serious and very far down the destructional trail, it's a clear cut decision."

Today statistics released under the Freedom of Information Act revealed nearly 150 dog attacks were reported in Edinburgh and the Lothians between January and September 2010. The figure is more than all the attacks over the past three years added together.

It is hoped the new legislation, which comes into play on February 26, will prevent incidents by allowing community wardens and dog wardens to issue control notices - or dog asbos - to owners whose animal displays threatening behaviour. In the case of a warning the dog will be microchipped.

The bill has also filled a gaping hole in legislation by covering attacks that occur on private property. The Dangerous Dogs Act does not cover attacks in gardens, paths and driveways, meaning hundreds of owners previously went without punishment.

Ms Grahame said: "When the legislation comes into force we will give it a year to run, then look into whether any other measures or changes are necessary.

"Dog owners will have to think a lot more. If they leave their pet with somebody else and it attacks anyone, the owner will still be responsible. It poses an interesting situation for dog walkers."

There has been a spate of attacks in Edinburgh and the Lothians recently. Toddler Gemma Horne, from North Berwick, was bitten on the face by a Staffordshire bull terrier last week in a back garden. A woman has since been charged. And on September 5, teens Sean and Wayne Darling were attacked by their pet as they slept in Bonnyrigg.