'Get tough on dangerous dogs': Trafford MP latest to join campaign in wake of Jade Anderson death
20 Jul 2013 - 05:40AM
By Danielle Birtles
A Trafford MP has joined parliamentary colleagues from across Greater Manchester in signing a petition calling for tougher action on dangerous dogs.
Kate Green, MP for Stretford and Urmston, has added her name to the thousands of those who have already signed the petition, which was started in response to the death of 14-year-old Jade Anderson.
Jade, from Wigan, was mauled by four dogs in Atherton earlier this year.
Ms Green said: "Many constituents have contacted me with concerns about dogs who are aggressive and out of control, and about dog fouling.
"Some of our parks and open spaces are being turned into no-go areas for families because owners aren't controlling their dogs."
The petition asks that the Government amend the law to cover attacks on people and animals on both private and public property, enforce Dog Control Orders and introduce Dog Control Notices giving the authorities the power to intervene
It also asks for the introduction of compulsory micro-chipping of all dogs and to promote responsible dog ownership.
Ms Green is hosting an interactive afternoon in Victoria Park on Saturday August 31 for dog owners, their pets, families and other Trafford residents.
The aim of the event is to bring the community together to take part in a range of activities and talk about issues surrounding dog ownership.
Blue Cross, who will be in attendance with the Friends of Victoria Park group, runs workshops for children of primary school age on pet care and staying safe around dogs.
Ms Green is also encouraging schools and youth groups across Trafford to work with Blue Cross.
They also run special workshops called 'Respectabull' for young people aged between 11 and 25; they aim to stimulate debate and discussion around issues of responsible dog ownership, anti-social behaviour and the law.
jade anderson