Here's one way to reduce dog attacks on kids: put those who want a pooch through a competency test - much like a driving test - before they are allowed to own one.
It would have to be a complex and tough test in order for it to weed out those who can't be trusted to take care of a dog - and, as the dog control act says, "make sure your dog does not scare or injure any one".
It also needs to identify those who become so besotted with their beloved canine that they forget dogs can be dangerous.
Honestly, it's as if some dog owners refuse to believe that their adorable little mutt could bite anyone.
Take it from me - because a few years ago I was rushed at and nipped by a kelpie - dogs are temperamental. And it doesn't matter if it's a puff ball Pekingese and a timid little Chihuahua, or a notorious pitbull and American bulldog, you can't trust dogs.
This week alone there have been three serious attacks on children.
Don't get me wrong, I love dogs. They are my favourite animals - and we had four of them when I was growing up. They are my four-year-old daughter Mia's favourite animals too. She is so passionate about dogs one of her play-acting games is being a Chihuahua. She would love a dog, and one day we look forward to getting her one.