Public outrage has erupted recently over the news of a greyhound called Luka who was attacked through his owner’s fence and injured by three rottweilers.
Attorney Garry Hertzberg and Klarika Nomsa of Bloubosrand Animal Welfare Group discussed the consequences that pet owners could face when their pet attacks other animals and what can be done to prevent such attacks from happening.
According to Hertzberg, “The owner of a dog is responsible for the actions of their dog, and could be criminally and civilly liable for damages caused by the dog. The owner of the dog is expected to take precautions to prevent harm in the same way a gun owner must take precautions.
“Should one owner accept the responsibility [for an attack] but refuse to pay damages then they haven’t really accepted responsibility, and the damaged party would have recourse to the civil courts. Damages would include medical bills and can even extend to damages for emotional trauma and psychological damage to witnesses of such an attack.”
Nomsa said that she believes dogs who attack other animals or people should go for training and counselling. She added, “Something might have happened to [the dogs], maybe even as puppies, which has made them aggressive.”
She recommended to all pet owners that a close relationship with pets is important and said, “They must feel loved and protected at all times.
“They must be part of the family and sleep inside the house. Kennels should only be there for shelter in the daytime. They need to be taught not to be aggressive towards other animals or species.”
