The news comes after Kingsbury resident Sally Pearce called for a change to the rules which require dogs to be kept on leads in 30 of the borough’s parks so that they apply in all public places.
The Times previously reported that Miss Pearce and her two year old Bolognese terrier, Norman required surgery after they were attacked by two unguarded Mastiff’s in March in Silver Jubilee Park – where the ruling does not apply.
But Cllr Ann John, OBE, has said keeping dogs on leads in all of the borough’s parks is not an option.
She told the Times: “If you apply this to every park and open space it is not fair on the many many dog owners in Brent who are responsible owners.
“This has always been a problem with the owner and not the dog and incidents like this are very rare so there are not plans to change the rules.”
Miss Pearce had to spend three nights in hospital after the attack to treat severed tendons in her hands.
Cllr John added: “My sympathy goes out to those involved in the incident but you have to be fair on the dog as well.
“We have controls in place where dogs are not allowed in children’s playgrounds and the BARK (Brent Action for Responsible Canines) is working hard to ensure these kind of incidents are kept to a minimum.”
However, to reassure residents Brent council are running a series of ‘road shows’ to remind residents of the orders.
There will also be free microchipping for pets and dog goodie bags and free advice on all dog related matters during the meetings, which run until May 17.
(Kilburn Times - April 6, 2012)
