A summer initiative to reduce dog attacks in Merseyside has been unveiled, following a surge in incidents last year.
Merseyside Police reported 469 dog-related injuries in 2023, marking a more than 21% increase from the previous year. In response, Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) have been enforced in 11 parks across Sefton to enhance safety.
“Our dog control zones are designed to ensure that dogs and humans enjoy these spaces in harmony,” said Sefton Councillor Peter Harvey.
The dog control zones require owners to keep their pets on a lead in designated areas and prohibit them from entering restricted zones such as children’s playgrounds and sports pitches.
Temp Chief Inspector Jordan Quinn emphasized that the measures aim to allow “all residents and visitors, whether they own a dog or not” to safely enjoy Sefton’s parks and open spaces.
“The PSPOs by Sefton Council were a welcome measure to tackle out-of-control dogs,” Quinn added. He noted that the zones are part of an ongoing effort to educate dog owners about the consequences of allowing their pets to roam unsupervised in public spaces.
Councillor Harvey stressed the importance of compliance with the rules to ensure everyone’s safety, particularly children. “In some areas, dogs must be kept on a lead. In others, dogs are not allowed,” he explained.
While most dog owners adhere to the PSPO regulations, Harvey acknowledged that a “minority” do not, and warned that they can expect to face fines.
The “Take the Lead” campaign, initially launched in 2023, supports these measures. The current PSPO, approved by Sefton Council in April 2024, will remain in effect until April 2027.
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