Coroner Raises Concerns Over American Bulldogs

The case of an 18-month-old girl who was killed after suffering multiple dog bites in an incident at home is a terrible reminder of the dangers which some pets can pose to children, according to a lawyer at Irwin Mitchell.

Zumer Ahmed died after being attacked by an American bulldog owned by her uncle in her home in Crawley, West Sussex in April this year.

A narrative verdict was recorded into the death of the youngster, with West Sussex coroner Penelope Schofield claiming that serious consideration should be given to whether it is suitable for youngsters to live “in close proximity” to such types of dogs.

Discussing the incident, Katrina Elsey, who has a wealth of experience of dealing with injury cases related to dog bites, said: “On many occasions I have seen the long-term, and occasionally fatal, consequences of dog attacks and it is clear that some thought should be given to how further incidents can be prevented.

“Like the coroner in this case, we often see the same types of dogs involved in such attacks and it is only logical that calls considering the safety of certain breeds would emerge.

“I hope that some attention can be paid to giving more powers to the police which will allow them to also seize any dogs seen to be a threat to the public.”