Number of dog attacks up to more than 100 in six months

MORE than 100 dog attacks have taken place in Edinburgh during the past six months, including one where a 12-month-old baby was bitten, it was revealed today.

The shocking figure, which includes attacks against children, adults and other animals, is twice the amount recorded in the whole of 2009.

The figures show that only one of the dogs involved in the 102 attacks recorded since January 1 was on a lead.

And all but 36 of the incidents happened in public spaces such as on roads and pavements, in parks or in open fields.

The attacks this year included 26 bites to children, 30 to adults and 39 to other dogs. Four cats and two swans were killed. A one-year-old was bitten and a toddler was also attacked.

But only around 12 people were charged for owning dangerous animals and only two of the animals were put down.

Scottish SPCA Chief Inspector Mike Flynn today said the number - which is the highest in at least five years - showed that people needed to drastically change their attitudes to owning and training dogs.

He said the new Control of Dogs Bill, set to come into force next year, was a much-needed change to the law and would ensure owners kept their pets under control.

He said: "Although we have to appreciate that people are more willing to report dog attacks now because of the coverage in the media, this is a high statistic. Many owners involved will be irresponsible.

"The current Dangerous Dogs Act doesn't apply to private residences, so the new laws will offer a welcome change. From early next year they will allow the law to impose sanctions on any dog owners who are deemed to be a threat. It will make sure that uncontrollable dogs are sent to training classes or are kept on a lead at all times. It doesn't matter what type of dog it is, it will be monitored and controlled at all times."

Suzanne Henderson, whose 13-year-old son Nicky nearly had his arm ripped off by an American bulldog two weeks ago, said she was "shocked" and "disgusted" by the statistics. She said: "When I was a child I remember that you had to have a dog licence to own a dog, and I would seriously consider bringing that back if I was in charge. There are just so many irresponsible people that don't train their pets correctly. Nicky is going to be scarred for life because of the attack."

Lib Dem councillor Conor Snowdon said he was considering a campaign following the vicious attack in his ward, in Gilmerton.

He said: "I think this is unbelievable and the number of attacks is quite horrifying. People need to think very carefully when they consider buying a dog. Sadly I think many people, especially young men, view dogs as a status symbol. I have a young family and we have been faced with growling vicious dogs on public footpaths and in the woods. It's very frightening when a three-year-old child comes face-to-face with a violent dog.

"Sadly this problem is on the rise in Gilmerton and I know a number of dogs were destroyed last year."

Last year 52 dog attacks were recorded by Lothian and Borders police. In 2008 around 43 attacks were reported.