Newmarket, Ontario, residents are raising concerns following a violent dog attack last summer that left a neighbor’s pet injured. Stephen Burnley and his family were enjoying a peaceful day in their backyard when a pit bull mix from a neighboring property hopped the fence and attacked their dog, Rex. Burnley and his partner sustained injuries trying to separate the dogs during the intense altercation.
The aftermath of the attack has sparked a prolonged battle for justice and accountability for Burnley’s family, highlighting the challenges in enforcing laws surrounding dangerous dog incidents. Despite receiving a dangerous dog order from the Town of Newmarket’s animal services, the neighbor allegedly failed to comply with the tethering requirement, leading to ongoing tension in the neighborhood.
Town officials have acknowledged the incident and are currently investigating the matter, with animal services supervisor Jacob Brewer emphasizing the even-handed approach in dealing with aggressive dog incidents based on various factors such as the severity of the attack and the likelihood of a repeat offense. However, Burnley expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of existing laws, particularly the Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA), in holding irresponsible owners accountable and preventing future attacks.
The DOLA legislation, which applies to all dog breeds, empowers authorities to impose measures such as muzzle orders and dangerous dog directives to ensure public safety. While the act includes provisions for potentially destroying aggressive dogs, Burnley advocates for stronger enforcement measures against negligent owners rather than punitive actions against the animals themselves.
Recent modifications to DOLA by the Ford government have aimed to address concerns regarding breed-specific regulations, emphasizing a fair and evidence-based approach to determine the culpability of dog owners. However, Burnley’s case underscores the challenges in navigating the legal system to secure proper safeguards against dangerous pets, particularly in instances of non-compliance or repeated offenses.
The community’s demand for stricter enforcement of animal control laws reflects a broader concern over public safety in the face of escalating dog attacks. The call for legislative amendments and effective implementation of existing regulations underscores the need for proactive measures to prevent future incidents and hold irresponsible pet owners accountable. As the debate continues, residents like Burnley remain determined to advocate for change and ensure a safer environment for all members of the community.