A POLICE Inspector has issued a plea to dog owners after several cases in recent weeks of the animals being "out of control."

Wrexham Inspector Rob Stevenson told the Leader there had been an "emerging trend" in recent weeks of such incidents.

He explained: "There have been several incidents of dogs being out of control - and these can include dogs attacking other dogs.

"We've had some in Bellevue Park this weekend, and Rhosddu Park.

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"There have been some minor injuries caused to people as well."

Insp Stevenson said officers are taking action in response to the trend - with education, restorative justice and where required, enforcement through the criminal justice system.

He continued: "This is a plea to dog owners to keep their dogs on leads and be responsible.

"We are working with the council and have had communication with councillors to support initiatives and enforcement regarding dogs being kept on leads in public areas.

"Depending on the severity [of an incident], it could result in the worst case scenario in a dog being seized and destroyed - which nobody wants.

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"Most dog owners are dog lovers and they wouldn't want their animals taken away from them, but ultimately this is to provide safety.

"These spaces are enjoyed by families and young children and we wouldn't want a serious injury to happen to any member of the public.

"We want to make sure these spaces can be safely enjoyed by all."

Anyone who has concerns about dogs being out of control in their neighbourhood can call 101 or speak to members of their neighbourhood policing team.

Insp Stevenson said: "We do have the Lead initiative, which is there to educate dog owners and put provisions in place to prevent danger - whether that be requiring a dog to wear a muzzle or be kept in a cage when in a house.

"Because dangerous dogs are not just dangerous in a public space, they can be dangerous in private dwellings too."

A Wrexham Council spokesman said: "The current dog fouling and dog control PSPO only requires dogs to be on leads on the adopted highway and footpaths and in specific car park areas in the country parks such as Alyn Waters Gwersyllt etc which is appropriately signed.

"Dogs don’t have to be on leads in any other areas however owners are expected to be responsible and keep their dogs under control.

The Leader:

"If officers are patrolling, they would have to ask the owner to place the dog on the lead if it was uncontrolled – only if the owner refused to do so would an offence be committed.

"However if the dog is out of control that would be a matter for the police to enforce as only they have the powers to deal with dangerous dogs.

"The current dog fouling and dog control PSPO is due for renewal this year and the council will be consulting on this in due course."