READERS often tell us that certain dog breeds, specifically Staffies, unfairly have a bad reputation.

While we have reported on dog attacks involving other breeds this type of dog does seem to crop up more often than others in reports of dangerous dogs or dogs out of control.

Staffies and Staffie-type dogs do seem to be common in Barrow, and this likely plays a part in the higher number of attacks involving these breeds.

Regardless of the breed of dog, the message from Theresa Anderson who was left with serious leg injuries after being attacked, is what we must focus on.

Mrs Anderson, a dog owner herself, feels sorry for the dog which attacked her because it was subsequently put down.

She states that dogs aren't "inherently aggressive" and that responsibility must fall to the owner.

If any of us owned a dog deemed to be even slightly aggressive, whether that is through their propensity to chase sheep or to give even a playful nip, it is down to us to make sure that risk is contained.

We are responsible for our pets and it is our duty, to them as much as to members of the public, to ensure they do not cause harm or injury.

For ultimately it is the dog which would pay the ultimate price and no dog owner, responsible or otherwise, wants to see their pet put to sleep.