BOLTON West MP Julie Hilling reflects a large body of public opinion with her call for tougher legislation for owners of dangerous dogs.
She was speaking in the wake of the terrible death of 14 year-old Jade Anderson, found dead at a house in Atherton with four out of control dogs. Ms Hilling says the law should focus on “deed” not “breed” and she’s so right.
She points out that the current legislation doesn’t cover dogs on private property and bans just four breeds of dogs, and she wants a change in the law. She had already raised this matter after a 2011 attack when former Mayor of Blackrod Beryl Monaghan has two cats killed by dangerous dogs.
“We need legislation which allows early intervention rather than dealing with the consequences of a dog attack,” states Ms Hilling.
While the MP like many other people wants only responsible dog ownership, it’s plain that some people will never get that message and it must be underlined by the law. Certainly, we don’t want any more tragedies like Jade’s so action is much needed. Perhaps it’s time to bring back compulsory dog licences so there’s no hiding place for any potential owner.