Owner of dog involved in fatal poodle incident steps forward

CALGARY – As a result of media coverage, the owner of a dog involved in a fatal attack on a poodle on Saturday has now come forward to Animal & Bylaw Services (ABS).

Yesterday, ABS issued a news release looking for public assistance in locating the owner of two large “pitbull-like” dogs after the incident on Templehill Drive N.E. Saturday morning.

Alvin Murray, North Operations Manager for ABS, says the owner of the dogs, one pit bull and one Staffordshire bull terrier, saw the story on the news and immediately contacted ABS.

“His girlfriend was walking the dogs at the time of the incident. He is being very cooperative and understands the severity of the situation,” says Murray.

ABS plans to meet with the dogs’ owner later today. The matter is still under investigation and charges are pending.

A mandatory court appearance is required in all serious cases and consequences will be determined by a judge. These may include fines up to $10,000.

In Calgary, all dogs that show aggressive behaviour will be investigated and pet owners will be held responsible. The Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, implemented in 2006, clearly demonstrates this commitment.

“Public safety is ABS’ top priority. We want to remind all dog owners that they are responsible for their pets’ behaviour and helping to ensure that all interactions between pets and people are safe for everyone,” said Murray. “And if they don’t, there are consequences.”

ABS promotes responsible pet ownership through a variety of methods including the Off Leash Ambassador program, presentations at community events, hosting the annual Safety Expo and partnering with other City departments on programs like Park’s PUPPY Program.

For more information on responsible pet ownership, visit calgary.ca/animalservices.

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