A local dog trainer says ensuring public safety and having the appropriate policies and procedures in place for owners and breeders are among the issues that need to be addressed following a horrific dog attack in Pouch Cove last week.

Two dogs had to be put down by police after going berserk and attacking and injuring four people, at least two of whom required hospital treatment for serious injuries.

Ken Reid, who has been training dogs for the last two decades, says breeders have to be held to certain standards to make sure they are responsibly breeding healthy dogs with good temperaments.

“Are you a good quality breeder? Breeding for temperament, personality, disposition, and do you have a shown track record for doing so?”

Reid says dog owners also have a responsibility to make sure their dogs are properly trained and socialized. He says various jurisdictions also have a responsibility to put the appropriate laws and enforcement in place.

“Do laws exist out there to handle situations like this? Do we have the resources to handle situations like this? Does the legislation mean that, for example, in other jurisdictions you get one strike and you’re out. If your dog attacks, that’s it, it’s dealt with.”