Reducing damage to trees

Weapon dogs and trees

In the last few years London has seen a significant rise in the level of dog damage to trees. Much of this is caused by irresponsible dog owners not understanding the levels of damage their dogs can actually cause. However, there is also an alarming amount of tree damage caused by owners of weapon dogs, who deliberately encourage their dogs to hang off tree branches to strengthen their jaws. One London borough estimates that the damage caused to it’s own trees is in excess of £1m.

Protecting parks and open spaces

The Mayor believes parks and open spaces are key to the capital's quality of life and is committed to ensuring that they are both friendly and safe places to be. He has also made a huge investment into London's trees and is planting 10,000 new trees across city.

Promoting practical solutions

As part of the wider work to tackle the rise in weapon dogs in London the GLA, in association with the London Tree Officers Association, hosted a seminar on 31 March to promote practical solutions for local authorities and other organisations to reduce the damage to trees. Along with a good practice guide, the event encouraged a joined up approach including education, community engagement, physical protection of trees and enforcement options. A leaflet has also produced, aimed at Londoners, so that people know what to do if they see dog damage.

• For more information, visit the London Tree Officers Association website

• For further safer parks good practice visit the safer parks pages

Dangerous Dogs Petition