Blind designer’s labrador attacked by unleashed dog in Caledonian Road

Published: 19 March 2010
by RÓISÍN GADELRAB

A BLIND software designer is appealing for help trying to trace the owner of a dog which attacked his first-ever guide dog.

Brett Rogers’ life was suddenly so much easier when he was given black Labrador Ben last year.

But just two weeks ago, as Mr Rogers was walking past William Hill in Caledonian Road, Ben was attacked by an unleashed dog. 

Mr Rogers, 28, who is partially sighted, held on to the leash and was dragged along with him.

He said: “As I was walking along another dog bit him round the neck and started dragging him down the pavement. I was still holding the lead and being dragged along. Then its owner came and tried to stop it but he didn’t have much control. He was shouting at the dog but it wouldn’t let go. Another person came and kicked the dog in the nose.”

The ensuing kick freed Ben but left both Mr Rogers and his guide dog shaken.

He said: “It’s pretty distressing not being able to do anything. The advice given by Guide Dogs [Association] is to stand back and keep them on a lead. If you get involved in a dog fight it’s highly likely they will go for you.” 

Mr Rogers took Ben straight to the vet. 

He said: “He had a bite behind the left ear and damage around his eye. When a dog is attacked, the instructor has to come out and assess his working ability and make sure he’s able to do his job. He’s been given all clear by the vets and can go back to work.”

Mr Rogers, who has been registered blind since birth, said having Ben – his first ever guide dog – has helped him with his daily life: “It’s made life a lot easier. I’m more independent, more able to go out and about and have fewer accidents because the dog walks around lamp posts. I used to use a white cane but that’s more difficult. It’s a lot safer having a guide dog. I’ve a pretty close relationship with him I work with him every day.”

Islington Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the attack, just before 7pm on Friday, February 26, to get in touch.

Mr Rogers said: “The dog was off its lead. I’m anxious. It’s a bit worrying when you know there are other dogs around. We’re not sure what type of dog it was. There was a CCTV camera but it was switched off. It happened in rush hour, there were quite a few people around. We need to work out if it’s covered under the Dangerous Dogs act.”

Investigating Officer Detective Constable Sam Harris said: “This must have been terrifying ordeal for the victim to hear his dog being attacked by another dog and not being able to see or help.”

Anyone with information can call 0207 421 0195 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.