We did find that a worrying number of children, who participated in Be Kind Belize, were bitten by dogs. Most of these were dogs known to the child, belonging to the family, friends of the family or neighbours. What we found was that the bites were often caused by a combination of irresponsible dog ownership, poor supervision of children with dogs and a lack of education of children on how to behave safely around dogs. This is why education is at the root of all of these issues.

What was also of great concern was the number of children who were witness to or participants in cruelty towards dogs. This cruelty was usually initiated by a male role model and as has been established, exposure and participation in the abuse of animals by children is often a worrying precursor for other anti social behaviours including violence towards humans.

On another note, while there have been no fatalities on San Pedro, I personally know of several, very serious dog bites and there was a fatality resulting from a dog bite on Caye Caulker last year. Being bitten by a dog is extremely frightening and often there are associated medical costs. Everyone should be able to walk the beaches and enjoy them without worrying about being bitten by a dog or their dog being attacked.

I applaud the efforts by SAGA, which lay the onus of responsibility exactly where it should lay, with the dog owners.


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