Owner of danger dog which bit man avoids jail

THE owner of a dangerous dog that viciously attacked a “world champion kickboxer” has avoided jail - despite it being the second time the dog attacked someone.

- By DAVID HUNTLEY

Alison Kennard

Alison Kennard’s Staffy-type dog Tyson had previously been the subject of a destruction order when it attacked the South Tyneside housing officer and athlete.

The man had gone to Kennard’s home for an appointment in April when he was attacked by Tyson, and another dog called Hank, in the garden. The victim was bitten on the legs and dragged to the floor during the terrifying incident, and was left with painful injuries.

However, after an appeal, the dog was not destroyed, but Kennard was instead ordered to keep Tyson muzzled when in private and outdoors. But he wasn’t muzzled at the time of the second attack.

Kennard, of Norham Avenue North, South Shields, appeared at Newcastle Crown Court to be sentenced for being the owner of a dangerously out of control dog causing injury. She had pleaded guilty to the offence.