H and F crackdown on dangerous dogs
by Hammersmith and Fulham Press Office
13/01/2009
A new squad to tackle dangerous dogs used in gang-related crime and antisocial behaviour is being set up in London.
The Metropolitan Police announced last week that the new team would investigate dog related crime, following in the footsteps of its already successful schemes, working with local authorities, the RSPCA and animal homes.
Hammersmith & Fulham’s own scheme, called BARK (Borough Action for Responsible K9s), has been patrolling the borough and cracking down on irresponsible dog owners since July 2007.
From April to November last year, the team seized 45 dogs under the Dangerous Dogs Act. Thirteen of these, which were banned breeds, were seized from 70 properties on the team’s monthly patrols in the borough.
The BARK team, made up of police officers and staff from H&F Council, the Mayhew Animal Home and the RSPCA, investigated 94 complaints about dogs. Problems ranged from persistent barking and fouling to attacks by dogs on both other animals and people.
More than 30 stray dogs were collected by BARK and taken to Battersea Dog’s Home animal Home, where they were looked after, with some finding new homes. The Parks Constabulary have also been working closely with BARK following 76 incidents involving dogs and 28 reports of strays in the borough’s parks.
As well as enforcement work, the BARK team has been promoting responsible dog ownership by launching a pilot scheme, based on the Neighbourhood Watch model, called Dog Watch to encourage residents to report incidents of dog fighting and other antisocial behaviour involving animals.
Officers have also spoken at residents’ and tenants’ group meetings and have visited events, such as community days, where they have been offering free micro-chipping and promoting the Mayhew Animal Home’s neutering service. The home offers this free to Staffordshire bull terrier type breed dogs.
Councillor Greg Smith, cabinet member for crime and street scene, said: “The majority of dog owners in H&F are responsible citizens but unfortunately, there is a growing number of cases where dogs are mistreated and trained badly, which can make them extremely dangerous. The BARK team are doing an excellent job and I hope residents will continue to bring people who abuse their dogs or take part in antisocial behaviour to our attention.”
