Southern K9 Training, based across Dartford and Gravesend are tackling dog attacks by setting up an educational program suitable for everyone from three years onwards.

Head dog trainer, Miguel Fontes, decided to educate and put into practise a Responsible Dog Ownership Program after reading about numerous dog attacks in the county.

Last September, a dog was mauled to death outside Gravesend McDonald's, and was just one of the many incidents that happened across Kent.

As a result of increasing attacks the program covers many angles of dog ownership and is also helpful to people who don't own dogs.

The program contains classes of Responsible Dog Ownership, where to look for help if you've been attacked and Dog Law Seminars, presented by Trevor Cooper, a specialist in dog law.

There are also personalised one-to-one lessons for dogs with specific behavioural problems as well as multiple shows and Doggy Talks for nurseries and schools.

Dog trainer, Eva Hartel said: "As a mum of two and dog owner myself, I believe dog education should start as early as nursery, as soon as child can comprehend simple rules and adhere to them.

"It should involve not only kids that live with dogs, but also the ones who don't, it will let them enjoy life without a fear.

"Educating them in a proper, relaxed and fun manner would avoid unnecessary distress and accidents in the future.”

The program offered by Southern K9 Training may prevent many tragedies and help avoid shame and prosecution.

Miguel is a certified NASDU instructor and behaviourist, who has worldwide experience in dog training.

Eva is trained in Animal Assisted Therapy and plans to offer counselling to victims of dog attacks, as well as dog bereavement counselling and as part of animal assisted therapy, counselling for people (especially children) with problems opening up about their mental health.

Both are fully CRB checked, insured and trained in Safe Guarding Children.

The next Dog Law Seminar will take place on Saturday, March, 28, at 12pm in Chalk, Gravesend.

Tickets are now on sale via www.doglawsos.co.uk and www.southernk9.co.uk for as little as £20.

You can follow the Southern K9 Training Facebook page for all latest information and monthly give-aways.

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