TROON Councillor Nan McFarlane has hit out after a toddler was attacked by a dog on Troon beach last week.

The councillor who is well known for her work within the community was shocked to hear of the attack but not surprised following numerous complaints to her office about unleashed dogs.

The attack which happened last Saturday, September 17 had left the toddler with serious facial injuries. Cllr McFarlane said: “I have had many complaints from people in the ward about this matter.

“Every time I try to take action on dogs on the beach I have been directed to Police. I just feel following this attack something more has to be done.”

She told us that she believed South Ayrshire Council has to answer for the leniency on dogs, especially after deciding not to apply for the blue flag award. She added: “One of the conditions to winning the blue flag award was keeping dogs off the beaches.

“Since we decided not to apply for this award due to another reason, dogs have been constantly been on the beach fouling amongst other things.

“I have to question where we are with the Dangerous Dogs Act? 

“Owners should more control over their dogs and legislation have control over the owners of dogs.”

One member of the public wrote into the Ayr Advertiser Series/Troon Times to give their opinion on the matter: “This is the second article within a week of little ones being seriously attacked by unleashed dogs, without any owners of the dogs being present. 

“Apart from this being strange dog behaviour, is it not time for all dogs out and about in public to be kept on a leash? And if a dog is seen to be without a leash, it could be assumed as potentially hungry and dangerous? 

“It is very sad that some dog owners have allowed this awful situation to potentially affect all pet dogs. Shame on those responsible. It is very rarely the fault of the dog.”

Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent Mike Flynn said: “We are sorry to hear of this incident which must have been extremely distressing for the child and parents involved.

“It is ultimately the responsibility of the owner to ensure their pet is kept under control at all times.

“Anyone with an animal that shows aggression towards another animal or person has a responsibility to rectify this problem immediately through training or veterinary advice.”