Dog attacks need investigating, says behaviourist
Behaviourist Debbie says dog professionals are concerned about the impacts of poor breeding and ownership.
A new investigation has been launched into dog bites and attacks, and the causes behind them. Dog behaviourist Debbie Connolly says lessons are not being learnt to prevent future attacks.
Dog bite victims and the owners of dogs who have bitten people are being urged to take part in an anonymous questionnaire. The series of questions have been designed to explore the whole scenario surrounding attacks in a forensic style.
Ms Connolly, who works for SafePets UK and the Pet Education Trust, feels a full investigation is needed into each serious case in order to prevent future attacks.
"Every bite and fatality is a sad tragedy that never creates any forward learning or change," she says. "As nobody investigates the scenario before the attack happens, where the dog came from or the role played by breeders, sellers and poor rescues, nothing changes."
The Pet Education Trust said an investigation into the external factors contributing to dog attacks is "long overdue".
According to Ms Connolly, many dog professionals are concerned about the impact poor breeding, puppy farming and irresponsible ownership is having on rising aggression in dogs.
She explains: "My intention is to find out what is really happening in these dog bite attacks to try and improve the lives of humans and dogs and encourage the creation of meaningful and effective legislation."
To get a copy of the questionnaire, email dogsafety@outlook.com
The BSAVA has opened submissions for the BSAVA Clinical Research Abstracts 2026.
