DOG owners are being asked to take the lead when it comes to keeping their pets under control.

A new campaign has been launched reminding residents it is against the law to let a dog be dangerously out of control anywhere, including in one's own home.

For a dog to be considered dangerously out of control it would have caused injures to someone, make someone worried it might injure them, attacks an animal, or if the owner of an animal thinks they could be injured trying to stop such an attack.

Chris and Lyn Roe, from Brighton Hill, know just how serious the consequences can be when it comes to responsible dog ownership.

Their beloved Westie Bobby was attacked last October and suffered injuries which were so severe that he had to be put down.

The attack happened just feet away from the couple’s front door, as Chris set off on a walk with Bobby on a lead.

However, two Staffordshire Terriers, owned by neighbours, appeared just seconds after he left the house. Neither were wearing a collar and one viciously attacked Bobby

Their owner was at work, and workmen had left the door of the property open.

Lyn said: “It was absolutely awful.

"Bobby was such a sweet and gentle dog. He was 14-years-old and everyone loved him.

“Chris is still traumatised about what happened and the fact that he was unable to save Bobby. But because of human negligence, two healthy dogs lost their lives that day.

“It’s always the owner’s responsibility to keep their dogs secure and under control, especially around other animals and children. Bobby paid the ultimate price.”

This new campaign is led by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council which is reminding owners whose dogs are dangerously out of control that they could receive an unlimited fine and be sent to prison for up to six months.

Cabinet member for regulatory services and the environment at the borough council, Cllr Hayley Eachus said: “The vast majority of dog owners are very responsible when it comes to keeping their pets under control.

“But unfortunately there are those who aren’t as responsible, and who put others at risk by failing to use a lead when necessary or failing to keep their pet securely in their property. Our message to owners is to think carefully about how you control your dog.

“If you know that they don’t listen to command, or if you’re around other people or wildlife, use a lead.

“The same applies if your dog is likely to be a nuisance to other owners. And please make sure that your home and garden is secure. The consequences of irresponsible dog ownership can be severe and even deadly.”

For more information about the campaign, go to basingstoke.gov.uk/take-the-lead.