In his own free time, PC Paul Croft, of Chippenham Neighbourhood Policing Team, established the Responsible Dog Owners Course (RDOC) with Blue Cross Animal Charity after noticing an increase in dog-related offences. The course covers a range of topics on being a responsible dog owner including legislation and responsibilities, dog safety and canine communication and dog control and management. “During my research work, I discovered that approximately 70 per cent of dog bite incidents happen in people’s homes, with most victims being young children,” said PC Croft. Insp Pete Foster said: “The work PC Croft has carried out to improve the response to dog bite incidents not only in Wiltshire, but nationally, is exceptional and should be commended. “I have no doubt that the online course and the assembly for young children will help prevent future dog bite incidents and potentially save lives.”
