It is not often that I have reason to congratulate Brighton and Hove City Council, but on this occasion thanks are certainly appropriate.

Last summer I suffered an unprovoked attack by a dog in Stanmer Park, while acting as a Red Cross volunteer. Despite my thick uniform jacket, I sustained four puncture wounds in my upper arm.

The dog’s owner, to his credit, returned to the Red Cross vehicle with me at my request, as I was feeling faint.

Unfortunately he spoilt this humane gesture by giving a false name and address, in the presence of a doctor and three other volunteer first-aiders. The police officer to whom I gave a statement the next day told me subsequently that as a false name and address was given, there was nothing more he could do.

Faced with this, I contacted Animal Control at the council. It became clear that both the dog and the owner were known to them. From then on they persisted in their enquiries and eventually secured a conviction, aided by the equally impressive council solicitors, particularly Len Batten. All this was reported in the Argus on February 15, but I wanted to share what I have learnt from the experience, and pass it on to others.

The dog concerned, though already banned from Stanmer when it attacked me, is now being exercised at Waterhall with the council’s consent (I gather that Waterhall is considered to be a “safer” place, as it is less frequented by the public).

There was no requirement for it to be muzzled, so walkers should be aware of this.

The other lesson I’ve taken from this is that should you or your dog be attacked, just go to the experts. Although I imagine a statement to the police is essential should you wish to take legal action (I’m happy to be corrected in this belief), I’m sure the police would endorse this approach, as they can’t be expected to have the same expertise as Animal Control.

Val Cane
Queen’s Park, Brighton