Buffy is a lucky dog.

Despite a vicious attack by two dogs, he is recovering nicely. Kudos to those who risked their own safety and stepped into help.

It has been a harrowing experience for both Buffy and his owner June Lyons, but it could have been much more tragic.

Not only could Buffy have been killed, those who intervened could have been injured. Worse, the victim could easily have been a vulnerable person – a child, a senior or a hospital patient.

Dog owners on the North Island must control their animals.

Having a dog, particularly a big one, might be great for hunting or protection or walks on the beach, but letting them run loose is simply irresponsible and inconsiderate.

Dogs, like all animals, are unpredictable. No matter how cute or friendly the family dog is, it can be provoked to violence given the right circumstances.

Other dogs, other pets, and people are put at risk of being seriously injured every time a dog leaves its yard free to do as it pleases. Even a well-trained dog will have difficulty resisting the temptation to explore the neighbourhood if given the opportunity.

Letting dogs run loose also encourages dogs to pack, potentially creating a killing machine to run around our community streets.

In order to protect everyone and show consideration for neighbours, dogs should be walked on a leash, tethered or kept in a fenced yard, and licensed.

Dog ownership is a serious personal and community responsibility, and those who shirk that responsibility are really the dumb animals.