Being educated and completing a training class, course or program can help not only the dog but the dog owners and others involved in the dog’s life including social interactions.

Violent acts performed by dogs can stem from many reasons such as fear or protective instincts. As dog owners, it is our responsibility to equip ourselves with basic training skills and behavioral training, should our dogs perform any violent acts, be it in our homes or the community. This real, pressing issue calls for a significant change in the state of Massachusetts: the imposition of a mandatory local Animal Control Officer (ACO) fee and training class for any dog owner whose dog performs a violent act like a stage 1 dog bite or worse. This will benefit the dogs and people of our communities and the fee will directly impact our local ACO. 

This proposal is not random but grounded in effective methods of dog behaviour management. According to a study conducted by the American Veterinary Society, dog behaviour training has proven to be effective in controlling dog aggression (American Veterinary Society, Canine Aggression Study, 2017). Therefore, mandatory training is indeed a pragmatic solution for ensuring that pet owners are better prepared in handling such situations.

It's time we take action. For the safety of our communities and the wellbeing of our animals, a legal requirement for owners to attend a training class following an aggressive incident involving their dog is crucial. This requirement will not only promote responsible pet ownership but also protect innocent individuals from potentially dangerous encounters. Detailed instruction on owning and understanding the dog's behaviour will minimise such violent acts carried out by dogs.

Be a part of this life-changing cause. Sign this petition and stand with us in our quest to safeguard both our pets and our communities from incidents of canine aggression.