Fresh warnings after dog attacks in South Yorkshire
Two people were attacked, and a puppy died
Dog owners in South Yorkshire are being told to stop thinking "it won't be me" after more attacks yesterday, one where a puppy died.
Police were called out to Barnsley and Doncaster yesterday (30th November) within the space of four hours.
Just before 3pm police received reports that a 19-year-old in the Worsborough Common area sustained serious injuries from her own Staffordshire Bull Terrier dog.
The woman was taken to hospital by ambulance with serious injuries that are not believed to be life-threatening.
Chief Inspector Emma Cheney, who is leading the work on dangerous dogs in South Yorkshire, said: “You are more likely to be bitten by a dog in your own or someone else’s home.
“The woman in Barnsley who suffered serious injury had a small child in the home at the time and we must realise the dangers posed to vulnerable people.
“We risk assess every call that comes into our control room concerning dogs being out of control. As part of the risk assessment, we look at other people living in the property, and how we can safeguard them from harm.
“Preventing danger starts within the home. If your dog is displaying any signs of aggression, seek help. Charities are available to work with you and your dog.”
A few hours later, just after 6pm, officers attended a property in Doncaster following reports that a bully breed dog had killed a puppy before injuring its owner.
Upon officers’ arrival, the puppy was dead and unfortunately could not be saved. The dog was signed over and remains in police care while enquiries continue.
CI Cheney continued: “This dog had been in the family home for over a year, and this is a reminder that when circumstances change, so can a dog’s behaviour.
“As Christmas approaches and your home may become busier and louder with festivities and family gatherings, please remember the stress that this can cause your dog.
“Your dog’s actions are your responsibility as an owner, whether in public, at home or in any other place.
“Once a dog becomes stressed or anxious, it can take days for the dog to calm down and return to its normal behaviour, so it’s important to remember to be understanding, vigilant and aware the days after your dog has displayed any type of distress or change in behaviour.”
Tips to follow to ensure your dog is happy and your family is safe:
Provide your dog with space to move away from the people in your home
Always supervise your dog and children and pay attention to what is happening so you can intervene at the earliest opportunity
Encourage gentle stroking and do not allow children to pull, grab or sit on the dog
Do not allow people unknown to your dog near them if it is eating, sleeping or with items that belong to him/her, such as toys