By ‘Weapon’ dog owners warned over damage to Grimsby parks
The owners of so-called ‘status’ and ‘weapon’ dogs have been warned after extensive damage was caused to trees in Grimsby’s Grant Thorold Park.
The damage is suspected to have been caused by dogs who are encouraged by their owners to chew on bark in order to strengthen their jaws.
But doing so exposes the living part of the tree to infection.
Now, authorities including North East Lincolnshire Council and Humberside Police have issued a warning.
A North East Lincolnshire Council spokesperson said:
“Our parks are intended to be beautiful spaces for everyone to enjoy.
“Sadly, we have recently investigated reports of several trees in Grant Thorold Park showing signs of deliberate damage, which we believe has been caused by ‘status’ or ‘weapon’ dogs.
“This is unacceptable. These trees are now more exposed to decay and disease.
“Trees that are damaged don’t always ‘just grow back’. In some cases they can become unstable and have to be removed.
“We’re also concerned about the danger that these dogs may pose to other people if they get loose in the park.
“The damaged caused to these trees is vandalism, and therefore this has been reported to the Police.
“Perpetrators will be prosecuted.
“Trees and plant life are the lungs of our planet.
“They absorb lots of harmful pollution, and provide a home for lots of diverse species of wildlife and insects.
“We’re asking all responsible dog owners to please help us to protect our green spaces by keeping your dogs on a lead and discouraging them from causing damage to trees.”
Anyone with information regarding such incidents should contact Humberside Police via the non-emergency number 101.
