A WOMAN has been prosecuted under the Dangerous Dog Act after her pet leapt over a fence in an attempt to attack a walker.

Mary Jackson’s Caucasian shepherd dog “barked and growled aggressively” at the woman as she walked in Higham, Burnley Magistrates’ Court heard.

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The prosecution said the dog pursued the woman, who managed to climb over a wall to safety as the dog continued to “threaten her”.

Dog owner Mary Jackson, 59, of Padiham Road, Sabden, was alerted to the incident, but “completely ignored the walker’s plight”, the court was told.

Jackson was fined £100 after being found guilty of being in charge of a dog dangerously out of control. The prosecution was brought by Pendle Council after the incident was reported to Pendle’s Dog Wardens.

The court heard the dog had leapt over a fence from Mrs Jackson’s smallholding at Haddings Head, Guide Lane on to Croft Top Lane to try to reach the walker.

Mrs Jackson was also ordered to pay £120 compensation to the victim, as well as £400 towards Pendle Council’s prosecution costs.

The district judge ruled the dog must be kept on a fixed lead less than one metre long when out in public.

Cllr David Whipp, Pendle Council’s lead on community safety and neighbourhood services, said: “Dangerous dogs are a serious issue and our dog wardens have done a good job in securing this prosecution.”

Ward councillor for Higham and Pendleside James Starkie said incidents of this nature were unusual.

He said: “While I respect people’s rights to let dogs off on their own land, we must ensure they don’t cause distress to others.

“You should not be walking on a public road and be frightened by a loose dog.

“You’ve got to be very careful with dogs and people.”

Mr Whipp said: “If you are in a situation where you feel under an immediate threat from a dangerous dog, call the Police by dialling 999.”

Support and advice on dangerous dogs and dog problems is available on www.pendle.gov.uk/dogs or by phoning 01282 661743.

Leaflets are also available from the Fleet Street Depot, Nelson Town Hall and Number One Market Street in Nelson.