A CAMPAIGN has been started in Bournemouth to try to stop the number of dog attacks on cats.

Campaigners urged councillors to sign their petition calling for a debate in parliament on giving cats the same legal protection as dogs.

The West Howe residents presented a deputation asking for support at October’s full council meeting held at the town hall.

One told the council chamber that a dog had savaged three cats to death.

Another resident said: “Cats are not protected in law – we need full rights and protection for cats.”

She said they wanted tougher penalties for dog owners whose pets hurt other pets, and asked councillors to write a letter of support.

“A letter will also be sent to the Prime Minister with copies of letters of support,” she said.

The deputation came after a spate of dog attacks on cats reported by the Daily Echo.

Black cat Smudgey died after being attacked by a three-legged dog in Sussex Close, Muscliff, in September.

Kess, a 13-year-old, was killed by a Rottweiler that burst into his own garden in Russel Road, Kinson, in May.

And Tommy, a two-year-old cat from Branksome, Poole, was killed in a neighbouring cul-de-sac in August.

Conor Burns, Bournemouth West MP, has met the concerned residents. He told the Echo: “By common consent the Dangerous Dogs Act is poorly drafted legislation.

“The police have said it is open to interpretation. It is for the council’s dog warden to act on reports of dangerous animals.”