No action against owner after Akita dog mauls pet
Gary Wilson was horrified when a Japanese Akita dog broke free from its lead and went for Boomette while he was out walking at the Musselburgh lagoons. The Akita grabbed hold of Boomette’s throat, and didn’t let go until Mr Wilson tried to prize its jaws apart.
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Hide AdBoomette needed treatment to her neck, which cost almost £200 in veterinary fees.
Mr Wilson reported the incident to police and East Lothian Council – but was shocked when they told him that no major action was required.
The owner was issued with a letter which advised that the Akita should be on a lead at all times, however it is understood that no guidance was given about keeping it muzzled.
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Hide AdMr Wilson, of Milton Road East, said: “I told the council and the police, ‘this could have been a child’.
“The police said they couldn’t do anything because it was a dog that it had attacked. When I got in touch with the council, they said the same.”
The 54-year-old said his pet, who is 16 years old, had “lost all her confidence and spirit”.
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Hide Ad“When I took her out she was just shaking, I think it was actually fear – she was terrified to go out,” he said.
“Maybe the next time this thing will attack a child. I wonder if police will still say nothing to do with us or the council will send another letter saying it must not do it again. They seem to be like designer dogs – I wouldn’t have any child near them. I want other people warned about these dogs.”
The incident happened less than a week after a Maine Coon cat was savaged by another Akita dog in Clermiston.
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Hide AdA police spokeswoman said: “Police received a complaint regarding an Akita dog attacking another dog to its minor injury at the Musselburgh lagoons on July 2. The complaint was investigated thoroughly by officers and by the council dog wardens. Advice was given to all parties involved. It was established that no crime had been committed.”
An East Lothian Council spokeswoman said: “While we cannot comment on individual incidents, I can confirm that in any case like this our wardens carry out a careful evaluation of all aspects of the situation and take appropriate steps to ensure that there can be no recurrence.”