Alarm over attacks on guide dogs

At least three guide dogs are attacked each month in the UK by other dogs according to a report published in the June edition of the Veterinary Record.

The researchers examined data on 100 canine attacks on guide dogs between November 2006 and April 2009 to determine the frequency and severity of attacks as well as the impact on the handler and the dog.

The report revealed that bull breeds of dog accounted for approximately 40 per cent of all attacks while 13.6 per cent of the aggressors were guard dog breeds. Forty-nine guide dogs required veterinary care following an attack and in 19 per cent of cases, either the handler or a member of the public sustained injuries.