Dog attacks creating unprecedented demand - police

Officers dealing with reports of dogs behaving dangerously is creating an "unprecedented demand" on South Yorkshire Police, a senior officer has said.

Ch Insp Emma Cheney said the force's control room received 20 reports of dogs causing fear or harm in 48 hours earlier this week.

Among them was a six-month-old who was bitten on the face by the family terrier-type pet and required hospital treatment in Sheffield.

Ch Insp Cheney said "Something needs to change and owners need to change. We are doing all we can to safeguard our communities, but we can't be everywhere, and I fear it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or killed by a dog."

The officer said four hours after the baby was attacked, officers in the Gawber area of Barnsley were seizing two dogs, believed to be the XL Bully breed, which had got into a garden and attacked the homeowner's dog.

Dogs from both incidents were taken away to police kennels.

Ch Insp Cheney said: "Emergency calls for dangerous dogs present a financial cost to the force every time we respond, often requiring officers from multiple teams to attend, as well as contracted kennel personnel who then transport, house and care for the dogs until action is decided."

The officer said initial action was followed up by safeguarding inquiries and any investigation as needed.

"All of this comes at a cost and takes officers away from other frontline duties.

"If every owner steps up and makes small changes, we can make a difference," she added.

The force has issued numerous warnings related to dogs over the past few years.

A Freedom of Information Act request published by the force showed attacks in which an animal or human had been injured by a dog had risen by 87% between 2020 and 2023, which saw 947 incidents.

Earlier this year, the force issued a warning to people in part of Sheffield to be aware of an XL Bully which they had shot but nevertheless escaped.

It was captured days later and put down.

Other instances include:

• The force speaking of the pressures of 32 reports of dogs out of control in one weekend
• A woman who needed reconstructive surgery after being attacked by the pet she was looking after
• Three children being attacked by animals in two days

Ch Insp Cheney also urged people with children in their home to be extra vigilant.

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