David Burrowes MP joins charity in call for action against irresponsible dog ownership

David Burrowes, MP for Enfield Southgate, joined Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, today to call for action on tackling irresponsible dog ownership at the charity’s annual House of Commons reception hosted by Jim Fitzpatrick MP. (Photo: Andy Catterall)

Dogs Trust unveiled a stunning photographic display depicting the work it carries out within communities to help reduce the problems associated with irresponsible dog ownership alongside its policy document, ‘Taking The Lead, Tackling Irresponsible Dogs Ownership’. The event provided a platform for MPs to talk to Dogs Trust staff about the work carried out on the ground to encourage owners to train, neuter and microchip their dogs.

David Burrowes MP experienced the impact of irresponsible dog ownership last week when his Labrador Cholmeley was attacked by a Staffordshire bull terrier in Arnos Park. The terrier was off the lead and caused injuries to Cholmeley’s two front legs, which needed veterinary treatment.

Mr Burrowes MP said tackling anti-social dog behaviour in Enfield Southgate had become a key issue for constituents, as well as a personal one:

“Incidences of anti-social behaviour involving dogs have been increasing in many local areas so I am delighted that Dogs Trust is proactively looking to tackle the issue by getting down to grass routes. While legislation has its part to play, outreach work in local communities is vital in order to engage dog owners and to help prevent dog attacks from occurring.”

“The attack on my dog comes on the back of a number of incidents in local parks which have been brought to my attention by constituents. I am pleased that dangerous dog laws are being increased to cover attacks on legitimate visitors on private property and that the government is undertaking a consultation to assist in the identification of dogs through micro chipping. However, more can be done beyond legislation to support responsible dog ownership. The problem primarily is not the dogs but the owners. I am therefore arranging a conference on 5th July with a local veterinary practice to bring together all interested parties to see what can be done to tackle this issue.”

“We have great local parks that the majority use and enjoy responsibly; however, because of the irresponsibility of a minority of dog owners, some parks have become no go areas for families with young children and other, more responsible, dog owners.”

Clarissa Baldwin, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, said:

“Dogs Trust works with over 300 local authorities to tackle the root causes of irresponsible dog ownership. We know from working in affected communities that this is a complex social issue; one that requires a multi-agency approach to target harder to reach groups. As the largest dog welfare charity in the UK, we believe that we’re in the best position to promote change by engaging with dog owners, schools, dog wardens, young offenders, housing associations and the police. We are delighted that David Burrowes MP supports the work that we are doing.”