School pupils design posters to promote dog safety scheme

Primary school pupils have been designing posters to promote a Caerphilly-wide dog safety scheme.

The Local Environmental Awareness on Dogs (LEAD) Initiative was launched last year as part of efforts to tackle dangerous dog attacks.

It 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.

There have been a number of dog attacks in Caerphilly County Borough over the last three years, including two fatal attacks in Penyrheol, claiming the lives of ten-year-old Jack Lis, and 83-year-old grandmother Shirley Patrick.

Inspector Huw Morrisey, of Gwent Police, said “The initiative encourages partners to work together, to promote and educate members of the public about being responsible dog owners.

“This competition is just one way of promoting LEAD and the winner will have their design used to raise awareness of the initiative.

“I would like to thank all the children who participated and congratulate the winner, I hope that they enjoy their prizes over the school holiday”.

The poster competition was won by Isabella-Rose from Ysgol Gymraeg Bro Allta.

Lily from Pengam Primary School came second, while Olivia, who goes to Ystrad Mynach Primary School, came third.

To report illegal dog breeds, dangerous dogs, or antisocial behaviour with dogs, Gwent Police can be contacted on 101, or 999 in an emergency.