Animal & Bylaw Services has charged the owner of a dog, as well as the person taking care of the dog, in connection to Tuesday’s attack at a home in Ranchlands that left a five-year-old boy suffering from extensive cuts to his face.

“The adult that was visiting brought a dog with her that belonged to a roommate,” said Alvin Murray, chief bylaw officer with the City of Calgary. “The dog subsequently attacked the five-year-old child and the child ended up with pretty severe injuries to the face area.”

The offending dog has been seized and will undergo a behavioural assessment.

The two individuals, who have not been identified, face charges of:

  • Attack Causing Severe Injury
  • Unlicensed Dog

“Animal & Bylaw Services makes public safety a top priority and aggressive animal behaviour will not be tolerated,” said Doug Anderson, Animal & Bylaw Services Inspector. “Under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw, owners are held responsible for the behaviour of their animals and people must be aware of these responsibilities when looking to add a dog to their family.”

The accused are scheduled to appear in court and face fines of up to $10,000.

The young boy was transported to hospital by ambulance in serious but stable condition.