Time to bite the bullet on dog control

The issue of dog ownership and responsibility for them has become a very big problem for two key reasons. Vicious breeds of dogs are out of control and dog fouling has become one of our biggest public health concerns.

People should be banned from owning, breeding or acquiring vicious breeds of dogs that are by their very nature extremely dangerous animals capable of inflicting serious injury or death, in the case of children.

The law as it stands is being ignored regarding leashing and, critically, muzzling. These laws are being completely ignored in too many cases.

When attacks happen, brazen owners claim that the dog was provoked in some way by a bystander. Many owners respond badly to people who tell them to keep the animal under control. People have every right to insist that owners keep their animals under control.

There is also the profound issue of dog fouling, which has become a huge public health problem.

Footpaths and streets are now extensively littered with dog faeces. Dog owners have no problem in letting the animal soil footpaths and brazenly walk on.

Again, if it is pointed out to the owner, the complainant is either ignored, told to mind their own business, or could have the dog deliberately set on them by a troubled owner.

The dog problem in this country is fast becoming a nightmare that needs strong, affirmative action.

Maurice Fitzgerald

Shanbally

Co Cork