Call for dog control

Eamon McDaid (48) was walking around Craigavon Lakes last week when he was confronted by an Alsatian.

The dog’s owner was nearby and appeared to have no control over her dog.

Mr McDaid said: “The dog came up to me and started growling. I had a stick in my hand and was ready to use it to defend myself. It was really frightening.

“The owner was walking behind it, just letting it run wild. She called the dog away from me and then apologised for her pet's behaviour.

“This is just not good enough. Dog owners need to have a bit of consideration for other people. I’m certainly not criticising all dog owners. I used to own dogs myself, and I know most are responsible. However, there are a significant number who are unable to control their pets and the council need to do something about it.

“It was fortunate that this happened to me. If this happened to an elderly person or a small child who couldn’t defend themselves, they could be seriously injured.

“I don’t think I’ll be going to the lakes again until this problem is sorted out. The council need to realise this is a big issue that people in the area are seriously concerned about.”

A spokesperson for Craigavon Borough Council said: “The Council investigates complaints of stray dogs and alleged attacks by dogs on people or livestock. We did receive a complaint last week about a stray Alsatian running loose around Craigavon Lakes. The dog warden visited the area at that time but was unable to locate this dog.”

The spokesperson added: “It is the responsibility of dog owners to keep their dogs under proper control and be effectively restrained from causing annoyance to anyone. A dog owner should take appropriate action if their dog is displaying threatening behaviour.”