Pete Scott wrote:
Tis the season of goodwill,I was crossing over fields on way to Boutham mere today. There was a guy 150yds behind me with a white bull mastiff type dog, of which he had no control over. The young but powerfull dog came jumping up me several times, I stopped in field corner so I could go opposite way to them,it came leaping at me again, and when I said to the guy, can't you put it on a lead he came rushing at me very loud and agitated.
Thought if I uttered another word he might take a pop at me. One to avoid.
Christmas greetings Pete
Hi Pete.
Sorry about getting on my soap box but its time something was about uncaring dog walkers. We can and do joke about these sort of incidents but its too late and not so funny when the dog has ripped child face off. I know of a family that has had that misfortune.
Of course it's the irresponsible dog owners that are at fault but if we stand by and do nothing and just laugh it off, we must ultimately share some of the blame as the problems get ever worse, not better.
While warden of the IVNR in Notts. I have reported lots of dog owners to either the council dog warden or the police, with varying results.
The local authorities NEVER! have time, or don't have the finances to do anything. Several mainstream wildlife organizations I know, just do not! want to get involved either. As they fear it may upset their public.
The only exception to the above has been the Humberside RSPB. Who instantly replied to my concerns about an of Tetney marshes and have been very pro-active with newspaper articles and visits to speak to the public.
Despite the general lack of enthusiasm for doing the right thing. I continue to report every dog owner with their dog out of control to the authorities.
Either with a description of the person, date, time and or the vehicle Reg. if I get the chance. They do eventually get the message I promise.
I also keep my MP well informed and have asked for his help to rid public places of out of control animals. (Bring back the licence fee and legislation to control dogs).
One letter from your MP to the chief of police or local authority, will make a difference, I promise. So please do take the time to either call your dog warden, policeman and please email your MP.
It may just prevent that next birder or kid from being terrorized.
Wishing you all a very merry christmas.