Bohemia Village Voice

Alexandra Park tree

Alexandra Park benches

In Alexandra Park damage to trees and items of park furniture has been caused by people hanging their dogs from them by their jaws.

The misguided owners of the dogs which are, for the most part, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Staff crossbreeds, think this is some form of training. The poor dogs are often taunted and abused or hung from such a height that they are afraid to fall. Obviously after receiving abusive treatment like this from their owners, these dogs can become rather aggressive and it is a sad fact that many of them end up in animal rescue centres or are simply dumped because their owners are unable to cope with them.

Two park benches (picture) were repaired near the Clarence Road entrance after they were shredded by claws and teeth. Trees next to Harmer’s Pond (picture) have also been badly damaged.

Martin Jenks in the Parks and Open Spaces Department at Hastings Borough Council stated this is a problem across Hastings and St. Leonards, and also said that it is the reason why many swings have been removed from childrens’ playgrounds, as the swing seats were also used in this way.

If you witness this activity you can call the RSPCA’s Cruelty Line on 0300 1234 999.