Dog safety lessons could be introduced for kids in Renfrewshire

The council committed to looking at introducing a rolling education programme on the matter after Councillor Andy Doig pitched the idea at last week’s meeting of the communities, housing and planning board.

Cllr Doig said teaching children about how to approach and socialise with dogs was “crucial” in lessening dog attacks and asked board members and education staff to investigate the feasibility of working with animal charities in order to draw up an education programme.

The Independent councillor said during the meeting: “I think we have to teach children it’s really important how you approach dogs.

“Dogs are not just domestic pets and they have to be taught how to approach them with care.”

Cllr Doig presented the idea as an amendment during a discussion on the council’s response to a national consultation on the Control of Dogs Act 2010.

Reports regarding the control of dogs in Renfrewshire have gradually reduced year-on-year since 2016, with just over 600 recorded in that time.

On a national scale, up to 5,000 people per year, many of them children, attend A&E to be treated for injuries caused by dog bites.

The Scottish Government has consulted with local authorities to identify steps which could be taken to improve the implementation of the Control of Dogs Act 2010.

Cllr Doig, who represents Johnstone North and surrounding villages, insisted better education on the subject would help reduce attacks.

He added: “There is a fashion now for larger dogs to be pets. These dogs are fine if they are well trained but it’s important to look at education possibilities.

“I believe it would go a long way to reducing attacks.”

During the meeting, it was suggested lessons could form part of the council’s Safe Kids initiative, where kids currently take part in a series of workshops on topics such as internet safety, alcohol awarness and responsible dog ownership.

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