A leading plastic surgeon has called for a ban on restricted dog breeds – warning that an attack can lead to ‘psychological damage for life’ in children.

Irish Association of Plastic Surgeons (IAPS) President Professor Jack Kelly said he and his colleagues have seen many ‘serious injuries from dog bites’ over the years. 

He is calling for more restrictions on ‘certain dog breeds’ who can cause the most harm – especially on children. 

Prof Kelly told Newstalk Breakfast a recent study found children who were bitten by dogs suffer more than physical damage. 

“[They suffer] PTSD, dogphobia, nightmares, anxiety, avoidance behaviour,” he said. 

“It’s not just the physical injuries and the ongoing surgery to correct the scars. 

“Young children who are bitten by dogs have serious psychological damage for life.” 

Restricted dog breeds

The current evidence to ban certain dog breeds remains ‘limited’, according to Prof Kelly – but that doesn’t mean these dogs are safe. 

“There is a growing awareness in the public that some dogs are just more dangerous than others,” he said. 

“Banning certain dog breeds doesn’t change the overall incidents of dog bites – but certainly some of these bigger breeds can be quite destructive. 

“Certainly, some of the more severe injuries could probably be reduced if we had greater legislation to control these particularly strong breeds.” 

American XL bully. Image: Farlap / Alamy Stock Photo

Since the end of December 2023, it is a criminal offence in England and Wales to own an XL bully dog unless you applied for an exemption before the ban came into effect. 

In February, the Scottish Government announced it too would ban the breed. 

Prof Kelly said Ireland could follow this example, noting the public “are aware these dogs are on the streets”. 

“I think they also want to see greater enforcement on existing legislation,” he said. 

“Certainly, I think having some control over your dog is important."

Death of Nicole Morey

There have been increased calls to ban restricted dog breeds in Ireland such as the XL bully and pitbull since the death of 23-year-old Nicole Morey. 

Ms Morey died after being attacked by a dog, understood to be an XL Bully breed, in the village of Fedamore in Ballyneety. 

Three dogs were removed from the house and at least one dog was destroyed by Gardaí. 

Community Development Minister Heather Humphreys has indicated dangerous dog breeds could be banned by autumn. 

A cross-governmental working group has been exploring the issue of restricted breeds of dogs, and Minister Heather Humphreys said she will take whatever they recommend on board.