Our family's cherished dog was viciously attacked and seriously injured by an off-leash dog in Northumberland. This terrifying experience has left us deeply shaken, and we fear for the safety of not only our pets but anyone unfortunate enough to be in the vicinity.

 Such incidents could easily lead to even more tragic outcomes, potentially endangering the lives of children or other vulnerable individuals.

Northumberland, with its beautiful parks and open spaces, is a haven for dog owners and nature lovers alike. However, the growing issue of multiple dogs being walked off-leash without adequate control poses a serious threat to public safety. Currently, there are no specific regulations in our region that limit the number of dogs someone can have off-leash, whether they are walking them for personal or professional purposes, which increases the likelihood of such dangerous encounters.

Evidence from various safety studies supports the fact that dogs are more controllable and predictable when tethered to a leash. Further, unrestrained dogs in groups can behave unpredictably, posing a risk to other animals and humans.

We must urge our local authorities to implement clear laws and restrictions on the number of dogs that can be walked off-leash at any single time. Setting a reasonable limit not only helps in ensuring the well-being of all involved but also promotes responsible pet ownership.

This change will help prevent future incidents and make our beloved parks and communities safer for everyone. Individual dog walkers and professional dog walking businesses will need to adapt, ensuring that they maintain control over the dogs in their care.

By taking decisive action, we can protect both our beloved pets and the people of Northumberland from preventable harm. Let's advocate for these necessary changes together. Sign this petition to call for a safer environment for all in Northumberland.