United Kingdom: Malamute owner defends dog which has history of attacking

UNITED KINGDOM -- A call has been made to put down a 'problem husky' after a man and his three small pets were attacked, but the dog's owner insists rescue animals should be given another chance.

Nathaniel Spalding, 37, from Cranfield was walking with his three terriers along a village bridle path off Bedford Road on December 16 when a neighbour's husky 'lunged' for him.

But Charles Gilbert, 59, who owns the larger dog, a Malamute called Mia, said she 'was defending herself'.

Mr Spalding said: "We were just taking our normal morning walk when a huge dog went for my pet – my dogs were terrified. And then it went for my face. I phoned the police right away and my dog had to be treated for its injuries at the vets.

"This [dog] is known in the village for being aggressive, it has attacked other dogs before.

"If it's not the first time and it's becoming dangerous to people, well, ultimately I would call for its destruction."

But Mr Gilbert insists rescue animals deserve another chance and was defending itself.

He said: "She did have problems when we adopted her and we've worked to train her. Mia doesn't like other dogs because she was never around dogs before. But we had warned that family before that she isn't good with other dogs. And she was wearing a hi-vis jacket that says 'doesn't like other dogs'.

"I've had German Shepherds since childhood – I do think people jump to conclusions because she's a big dog – she does look like a Husky, we've even had people say she looks like a wolf. Rescue dogs should be given another opportunity to retrain.

"We have done everything we can to act responsibly. We put a muzzle on her when we take her out. We're training her and getting expert help. She's a lovely dog."

He added: "The RSPCA did visit us and the only recommendation they made was to put a spring on the gate in case someone leaves it open – which we have done. In fact we have gone one step further and now we only let her out into the back garden."

A spokeswoman for Bedfordshire Police said: "A risk assessment has been carried out, which included a review of the dog owner's garden security, and we are working together with them to develop a written agreement. Breaching it is an arrestable offence."

(onemk.co.uk - Feb 14, 2016)