The Board of Health also had before it the following communication (May 27, 1998) from Councillor Giansante:

I am writing to you because of the recently publicized dog attacks that have shocked and concerned residents across the City. Animal attacks seem to be on the rise, and the pressure to do something is also increasing.

After consulting with Animal Control Services staff and members of my community it seems as though the timing is right to introduce a new city wide animal education program. Education is the key to prevention, and by concentrating on an expanded outreach program we can improve the health and safety of children, pet owners and pets themselves.

The City should be proactive and quickly pursue the creation of a city wide outreach initiative that can target schools, day cares, summer camps, malls and any other effective media.

Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to discussing the matter in more detail in the near future.