Newmarket, Ontario – A Newmarket resident is pushing for stricter actions after a neighboring dog allegedly hopped a fence and attacked his dog last summer. Stephen Burnley was enjoying a peaceful day in his backyard with his partner and their dog, Rex, when a dog, believed to be a pit bull mix, leaped over the fence, leading to a violent altercation.
The incident left both Burnley and his partner with bites while Rex suffered injuries, causing a significant emotional and physical toll on the family. Burnley’s call for action has raised concerns about the adequacy of existing laws and enforcement mechanisms when it comes to violent dog attacks.
Following the attack, the Town of Newmarket’s animal services issued a dangerous dog order requiring the dog to be tethered in its backyard. However, Burnley claims his neighbor has repeatedly disregarded the order, prompting a struggle to ensure compliance.
While the town confirmed an ongoing investigation into the incident, Burnley expressed frustration over the reluctance to escalate the matter to provincial legislation under the Dog Owners’ Liability Act (DOLA). This legislation holds owners responsible for their dogs’ actions and allows for measures such as muzzling or issuing dangerous dog orders.
Despite his belief that the offending dog is a pit bull mix, Burnley emphasizes his opposition to destroying the dog, advocating instead for stricter penalties for the owner. The complexities of enforcing DOLA, including lengthy court processes, have raised questions about the effectiveness of current regulations in addressing dog attacks in the community.
The recent amendments to DOLA by the Ford government reflect ongoing efforts to improve legislation concerning dog ownership and public safety. Burnley’s case underscores broader concerns about the need for more stringent enforcement measures and accountability for dog owners to prevent future incidents in Newmarket.
The prevalence of vicious dog attacks in Newmarket highlights the urgency for comprehensive and efficient enforcement mechanisms to protect residents and their pets. Burnley’s advocacy for stronger regulations stems from a deep concern for the community’s safety and well-being, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address dangerous dog behaviors effectively.