Monday's attack by a pitbull terrier on a postwoman is just the latest in a seemingly endless list of attacks on people and other animals by dangerous dogs and the time to act has come.

Dr. Maureen Ware Cieters' notions about special handling licences for the owners of dogs from dangerous breeds and the muzzling of dangerous breeds are controversial, but are worth serious consideration.

The Dogs Report tabled in the House of Assembly at the end of last year has proven to be relatively useless in ending these problems. It is time for Government, the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and other interested parties to get together and take another look at the whole issue of dangerous dogs.