A ‘dangerous’ dog must wear a muzzle after an attack at a Chippenham park.
Police officers raced to John Coles Park following reports of a dog mauling another dog at around 5.20pm on Monday (28 April).
Posting in Chippenham News & Notice Board, a eyewitness said she was “humbled” by how many people intervened to save the dog.
She said it was a “it was a ‘faith restored in humanity’ kinda moment”, adding that they are “lovely people”.
It’s believed the attacking dog was a Italian mastiff, also known as a Cane Corso. The victim dog was a black labrador.
Wiltshire Police confirmed that officers were sent to the scene – with one person bitten on the hand as they attempted to separate the animals.
“Both dogs had been separated by the time we arrived on the scene and the owner of the suspect dog was dealt with by means of a community resolution order, which was supported by the victim”, a force spokesperson said.
Adding: “This order requires the dog to wear a lead and muzzle at all times whilst in public spaces, the dog must only be walked by persons over the age of 18 and the dog’s owner must attend a Responsible Dog Owners Course.”
A spokesperson for Chippenham Town Council said: “Recently, we have received some concerning reports regarding the behaviour of dogs and their owners.
“These include elderly people being knocked over by dogs off lead, children being scared whilst playing in the park, and dogs on lead being attacked by dogs off lead.
“We are also aware of some alarming situations which have resulted in verbal abuse when trying to be resolved.
“We are committed to providing safe, clean, and pleasant facilities which are welcoming for all, at all our venues.
“We need your help to ensure our shared spaces are respected by following and complying with some simple rules which you can read in full in our Dog Policy.
“John Coles Park has a clearly signed designated dog off-lead and a dog on-lead area in the park.
“It is the responsibility of the dog owner to ensure the safety and control of their dog. This includes when the dog is on and off the lead, in all Town Council parks, open spaces and facilities.
“We would appreciate your cooperation when exercising your dogs at our facilities to enable safe enjoyment for all users.”
