Owners of Tibetan Mastiffs held responsible for April incident

The owners of two Tibetan Mastiffs have been ordered to pay a combined total of $3,250 in fines by provincial court in response to charges laid by Animal & Bylaw Services for an aggressive dog incident on April 9, 2013. In the interest of public safety, both dogs have been euthanized.

“Public safety is our top priority and aggressive behaviour from dogs won’t be tolerated,” said Alvin Murray, Operations Manager with Animal & Bylaw Services. “Owners will be held accountable as evidenced in this instance.”

Animal & Bylaw Services laid charges against owners of the two dogs who were at large in the area of Martindale and Falconridge near a school. Police and Bylaw officers were called to gain control of the dogs which required a tazer being discharged and resulted in a Police officer being bit on the leg.

The owners voluntarily signed over the dogs to Animal & Bylaw Services following the incident. A comprehensive behavioural assessment determined both dogs would continue to pose a threat to public safety if released. Accordingly, the dogs were euthanized.

“The behavioural assessment made it clear these dogs could not be allowed out in the public again. Euthanasia is always a last resort and we take that decision very seriously.” said Murray. “It is the ultimate consequence for not properly caring for and training your dog.”

Each owner was charged with multiple counts under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw.

Citizens who witness an animal acting aggressively or running at large are encouraged to contact 3-1-1. If there is imminent public risk or injuries are involved, call 9-1-1.

Owners of aggressive dogs are strongly encouraged to contact the Calgary Humane Society or a certified dog trainer to help resolve aggression issues.

For more information on reporting dog bites and dog safety, please visit Calgary.ca.

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