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The CWU has been for many years spearheading a campaign for appropriate changes to the law with regard to injuries sustained by dangerous dogs. Leading that campaign, Dave Joyce, CWU's National Health, Safety & Environment Officer has regularly kept the Union's safety reps updated on the campaign. In a letter to all CWU branches (LTB127/14) Dave has updated advice and guidance concerning safety in the home if you hav ea dog with behavioural problems. In addition sources of support and guidance documents are also attached to the LTB. Dave writes: Sadly this month, two further young children have died in dog attacks in their home, many others receive terrible life changing injuries in avoidable incidents, the number of which very worryingly continue to rise. In many cases irresponsible, careless owners are the cause of dog attacks as we all know but in others families make the mistake of allowing dogs and young children to be alone together unsupervised. The Dogs Trust say that many dogs show unwanted behaviour, whether they have come from rescue or not, but why does this happen and what can you do about it? All dogs are individuals, have different genetics and experiences that will shape how they turn out and interact with their owners. The Dog Charities, Vets and Trainers believe dogs that are understood, well-trained and cared for are less likely to cause problems. They have issued guidelines which we are circulating for guidance for owners amongst our own membership and their families. Attachments to the LTB can be downloaded by clicking on the link:
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Source: CWU |
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Over the years I've been leading the Union's 'Bite-Back' campaign, I have met many of the parents and families of children killed and severely injured with life changing injuries. These meetings have been heart-rending, sorrowful experiences, witnessing the great mental pain, anguish or deep distress in the bereaved family who are coming to terms with this tragic event.
Any dog can become aggressive – so it’s hard, if not impossible to generalise about them. However, there are some common factors that could create a problem or problems in dogs and in their attached Fact Sheet, the charity describes them. Ultimately though, any dog with a behaviour problem causing concern must first be seen by a vet to rule out possible physical causes, before being referred to a reputable qualified behaviourist.