“Jack’s legacy”: How Caerphilly is looking to tackle the threat of dangerous dogs

A new initiative launched in a bid to end dangerous dog attacks has been described as the “legacy” of ten-year-old Jack Lis, who was killed by an XL Bully dog.

And the daughter of 83-year-old Shirley Patrick, who also died as a result of a dog attack, said the new scheme’s launch meant her mother did not die in vain.

Caerphilly’s Local Environmental Awareness on Dogs (LEAD) is being led by Gwent Police, Caerphilly County Borough Council, and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, and is modelled on similar schemes in other parts of the UK.

It will provide advice to the public on dog-related issues, as well as improving dog safety and welfare. It will also deal with antisocial and ‘inconsiderate’ behaviour by those with dogs.

The scheme was launched on Thursday September 21 from the council’s headquarters in Ystrad Mynach in front of representatives and councillors.

In attendance as guests of honour were Emma Whitfield, who lost her ten-year-old son, Jack Lis, to a dog attack in November 2021, and Gail Jones, who lost her mother Shirley Patrick after she was attacked by an American XL Bully in December 2022. Both attacks happened in Penyrheol.

There have been three serious dog attacks in Penyrheol alone over the past two years, the most recent being a five-month-old baby in April this year.

An emotional Emma said: “It’s a huge step that we’ve been asking for since we started campaigning.

“Owners have to be more responsible with their dogs. Caerphilly alone has seen far too many attacks. It’s not just the banned dogs, if we can get more people thinking about how to look after their dogs we’ll all be safer.”

On Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s decision to ban American XL Bully dogs, Ms Whitfield added: “I cried when I heard the news, but a ban is not enough.

“It’s good to see a line drawn somewhere, but I want to see more action when it comes to the breeding and sale of dogs.

“The dog that killed Jack was given away for free on Facebook, something needs to be done to address that too.”

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner, Eleri Thomas described LEAD as “Jack’s legacy”, adding: “I’d like to thank Emma for her bravery and tireless campaigning.

“This is a tribute to Jack and I hope this turns a terrible event into a positive step which we will hopefully never see again.”

Shirley Patrick’s daughter Ms Jones spoke about the launch of LEAD meant to her.

“I think it will help educate the public and ultimately lead to less incidents. I’m proud Caerphilly has shown initiative on this.

Ms Patrick was taken to hospital following the attack before later passing away. Ms Jones is thankful her mother, who had dementia, couldn’t remember how she was hurt.

“She forgot the attack almost straight away” Ms Jones said. “She lay in hospital and told me she loved me, I told her I loved her too and she slipped into a coma”, she added.

Ms Jones went on to say: “Emma is so brave. I can’t imagine what she goes through everyday. I’m just thankful my mother didn’t die in vain.”

Member of Parliament for Caerphilly, Wayne David, was also present. He has campaigned with Ms Whitfield since she lost her son, and brought the issue of dangerous dogs to Westminster on several occasions.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer he said: “It’s very important to see action taken at a local level. This issue can’t be solved with a silver bullet.

“We need more initiatives like this as well as stricter regulation. These dogs are often bred in appalling conditions. I’m asking for the government to review the Dangerous Dog Act as soon as possible.”

Cllr Sean Morgan, leader of Caerphilly Council added: “LEAD has been recognised nationally as best practice for promoting responsible ownership and we will work with dog owners to encourage and support this.

“However, we also need to deliver a clear message to our residents that if anyone fails to comply with our interventions, we will act to enforce the law and protect the public whenever necessary and where legislation permits.”

Labour Senedd Member for Caerphilly, Hefin David, was also at the launch and added: “I am extremely grateful to Gwent Police and Caerphilly Council on the work they have done in putting this initiative together.

“Their work, along with the help of Jack Lis’ mum Emma, will encourage responsible dog ownership, while improving public safety and dog welfare through education and partnership working.”

Members of the public are urged to call the local authority for noisy dogs, dog fouling, illegal breeding or stray dogs.

Call Gwent Police on 101, or message via Facebook or Twitter for illegal breeds, organised dog fights, dangerous dogs or anti-social behaviour with dogs.

In an emergency, always dial 999.