In recent years, instances of dog attacks in England and Wales have witnessed an uptick, causing growing apprehension among the public. Although such occurrences remain uncommon, the severity of incidents, such as the recent attack on 68-year-old Esther Martin, has fueled fears and raised questions about personal safety in the face of aggressive dogs.
Despite a notable surge in reported dog attacks over the past five years, these events are still considered highly unusual. While not all incidents are reported to the police, data from 2022 reveals nearly 22,000 cases of out-of-control dogs causing injuries, considering an estimated UK dog population of 11 million. Fatalities, however, remain rare, with the government reporting 23 deaths attributed to dog attacks since the beginning of 2021.
If confronted by an aggressive dog, experts provide essential dos and don’ts for personal safety. Animal behaviorist Rosie Bescoby cautions against the instinct to flee, emphasizing the risk of falling over. The RSPCA echoes this advice, discouraging running or screaming, as it may provoke a chase or trigger a predatory response. Bescoby suggests crossing arms over the chest to minimize the risk of bites, while creating distance to avoid confrontation.
In the event of an attack, attempting to pry a dog’s mouth open is strongly discouraged. Bescoby recommends grabbing the collar from the back of the neck and twisting it to cut off the air supply if a collar is present. Despite these precautions, Bescoby acknowledges that in certain situations, there may be little one can do to prevent an attack.
Jane Williams, Secretary of the Animal Behaviour and Training Council, agrees that creating distance or using a barrier is the best course of action but acknowledges the variability of each situation. Kerry Stevens, who experienced a traumatic dog attack in 2014, emphasizes the difficulty of protecting oneself during such incidents, suggesting the use of a potential defense weapon.
While discussing preventive measures, experts stress the importance of responsible dog ownership. The RSPCA advises fending off the dog rather than fighting back, suggesting the use of items like a briefcase, bag, or coat as a barrier. They also recommend calling for help without screaming, maintaining an upright stance, and avoiding cornering oneself.
Contrary to public perception, a 2019 US study highlighted that most dog bites occur in homes, with the dog usually known to the victim. Rosie advocates for more comprehensive measures than merely banning specific breeds, questioning how restrictions on certain breeds in public spaces address attacks that occur within homes.
The Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 restricts ownership of American XL bully dogs in England and Wales. Since December 31, it is illegal to sell, give away, abandon, or breed XL bullies. As of February 1, owning an XL bully without an exemption certificate is a criminal offense. Registered dogs must be leashed and muzzled in public, with police empowered to seize unregistered dogs, and owners facing criminal charges and unlimited fines.
