Photo of a typical American Staffordshire Terrier
Our office has been made aware of at least two separate incidents over the past year involving attacks by a dog or dogs belonging to the same owner. Last June, an American Staffordshire Terrier residing in the Craighurst Avenue area allegedly attacked another dog causing serious and life-threatening injuries. Earlier this month, the same dog – or another dog at the same residence – allegedly attacked a couple walking along the sidewalk along Craighurst Ave. An investigation by the City’s Animal Services is ongoing in this latest incident. Animal Services requires strong evidence through witness statements in order to issue charges that will be upheld in court.
In the interest of public safety, I am appealing for witnesses to come forward and submit a Witness Statement related to either of these incidents or any future violations. The official Witness Statement document is linked below. It is extremely important that any residents in this neighbourhood officially report any violations to Animal Services with a witness statement that provides specific details (date, time, observations of the violation i.e. off leash on the street) and are willing to attend court to provide testimony should the accused deny any wrongdoing and wish to dispute any charges against them.
Importantly, if these dogs are seen off leash, please immediately report this to Animal Services through the City’s Works dispatch emergency line available 24 hours a day at 905-615-3200 x2425.
Residents in the neighbourhood are concerned about their safety. I am working with Animal Services to address this concern and I need and appreciate the public’s assistance in this regard. Thank you for taking an intentional interest in helping to keep our community safe.