Haldane man, Daniel Brooks is behind bars for five months and banned from keeping dogs for three years after admitting being in charge of the animal as it attacked the tiny terrier The incident saw Brooks’ Staffordshire Bull Terrier savage the tiny Yorkie on June 6 this year. Police say the Yorkie received multiple, severe injuries — so serious, it had to be put down. Brooks, 43, of Cranloch Court, initially denied being in charge of the dog during the vicious attack in Dalmuir, but pled guilty at Dumbarton Sheriff Court last week.

Now dog owners are being reminded of their responsibilities.

Animal charity, the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA), and Police Scotland were quick to drive home the message after the incident, which led to the attacking dog also being put down.

SSPCA Chief Superintendent, Mike Flynn said: “It is ultimately the owner’s responsibility to ensure their pet is kept under control at all times. Anyone with an animal that shows aggression towards another animal or person has a responsibility to rectify this problem immediately through training or veterinary advice.” Under the Control of Dogs Act 2010, it is an offence for a dog to be out of control in a public or private place, and under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, any owner who allows any breed of dog to attack a person in a public place may face prosecution and the prospect of their animal being humanely destroyed as a result of their irresponsible actions.

Inspector Neil Smith from Police Scotland told us there had been no significant increase in such incidents and said the Dangerous Dogs Act was “relatively successful” in placing a greater degree of responsibility on dog owners.

He added: “Sentencing is obviously a matter for the courts but Police Scotland’s position would be that this is a substantial punishment that will hopefully act as a reminder to other dog owners of the need to keep their dogs under control at all times.” Mr Flynn said Staffordshire Bull Terriers were inherently “no more aggressive” than any other breed of dog in the hands of a responsible owner.

He added: “Any dog can be capable of aggression, particularly if poorly socialised or actively encouraged and rewarded for such behaviour.” What are your thoughts on this story? Should more be done against the owners of such dogs? Do you see dangerous dogs in your area?

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