Two years ago, John Paul Massey from Wavertree was killed by a dangerous dog. As well as the serious life-threatening incidents, they can also make life a misery for neighbours and communities who have to deal with them on a daily basis.
On June 1st the Government concluded a public consultation on existing legislation of dangerous dogs. Despite several requests from both myself and other members, the Government has thus far failed to update the House on the outcome of that consultation.
If you want to help you can write to the Ministers responsible urging them to hurry up and make sure we take real action against this troubling menace.
Your letter will be more effective in your own words, but you may want to include the following points:
- In 2008 almost 6,000 people – up from 4,300 a decade ago – needed hospital treatment for injuries caused by dogs.
- If the Government won’t introduce new legislation, we need existing legislation to be enforced properly.
- Merseyside Police has already had to make cuts worth £3.8m this year – more cuts will make it even more difficult to enforce the legislation
- Around 3 guide dogs a month are attacked by dangerous dogs, harming them and causing signficiant concern for their owners.
- There are between 5,000 and 6,000 dog attacks on postwomen and postmen each year, and around 400 on telecoms engineers.
- If you can, include any personal experience you have of dangerous dogs
- Finally – ask when the government is going to release their response to the consultation
You need to send your letter to:
Rt Hon Caroline Spelman MP
Secretary of State for Environment
Nobel House
17 Smith Square
London
SW1P 3JR
Or email it to:
helpline (at) defra.gsi.gov.uk
Please also email a copy of your letter to me at: luciana4wavertree (at) hotmail.com
